The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Republic of Uganda have signed an agreement to build a fully integrated eye hospital in Entebbe, with an investment of $20 million.
The agreement was signed by Sultan Mohamed Al Shamsi, Vice Chairman of the UAE Aid Agency, on behalf of the UAE, and Vincent Bagiire Waiswa, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on behalf of Uganda.
The initiative, undertaken under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the oversight of Sheikh Theyab Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, Chairman of the International Philanthropic and Humanitarian Council, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, reflects the UAE’s commitment to advancing global healthcare.
Sheikh Theyab emphasized the significance of the agreement, stating, “This project aligns with the UAE’s enduring commitment to advancing global healthcare services and addressing the medical needs of communities across Africa.” He further highlighted the UAE’s dedication to its humanitarian mission and its responsibility to promote development, prosperity, and stability worldwide.
This pioneering initiative exemplifies strategic partnerships, particularly within the African continent, aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
Sheikh Theyab underscored the unwavering commitment of the UAE’s leadership, under the guidance of President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to bridge healthcare gaps for vulnerable populations globally.
Erth Zayed Philanthropies has set an ambitious goal of establishing 10 specialized hospitals within a decade to address the critical healthcare needs of underserved communities and improve access to quality healthcare infrastructure.
Sheikh Shakhbout Bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State and Chair of the International Health Advisory Committee at the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, emphasized that this agreement signifies a strong foundation for bilateral relations between the two countries.
“Through the implementation of development projects that address community needs and provide sustainable and innovative solutions, the UAE and Uganda are forging new horizons of cooperation, particularly in the healthcare sector,” Sheikh Shakhbout stated. “These initiatives aim to benefit thousands of patients suffering from eye conditions.”
He further emphasized that the establishment of the eye hospital in Entebbe reflects the shared commitment of the leadership in both countries to strengthen bilateral ties and advance their shared health goals.
The project aims to enhance the efficiency of medical services, establish advanced standards of care, improve healthcare infrastructure, and ultimately fulfill the critical goal of ensuring accessible and quality healthcare for all.
