Gulu, Uganda: Joint Medical Stores (JMS) has officially opened its sixth regional branch in Gulu City, aimed at enhancing access to affordable and quality medical supplies across northern Uganda. The facility, which cost UGX 12 billion and took four years to complete using JMS’s internal revenue, is set to serve 22 districts across Acholi, Lango, and parts of West Nile.
The opening ceremony, held Thursday, October 16, drew religious, civic, and health leaders who emphasized the urgent need for equitable healthcare in the region. Archbishop Raphael P’Mony Wokorach of Gulu Archdiocese lauded JMS for bringing medical services closer to communities that have long struggled with access.
“Quality and affordability must come first. Many people still cannot access proper health services. Do not forget the most vulnerable members of society,” he said, highlighting the symbolic importance of a healthcare facility in a once-troubled region.
Bishop Geoffrey Loum of the Diocese of Northern Uganda reminded attendees that JMS is a joint initiative of the Uganda Catholic Medical Bureau and the Uganda Protestant Medical Bureau, emphasizing collaboration and fair pricing to ensure inclusive healthcare.
Bishop Robert Muhiirwa, Chairman of the JMS Board of Trustees, noted that the Gulu branch shortens supply chains and makes quality medical supplies more accessible to hospitals and clinics in northern Uganda.
Health officials welcomed the branch as a boost in combating counterfeit medicines. Dr. Patrick Oceng, Lira District Health Officer, said: “Reliable access to quality and affordable supplies has always been a problem. This branch will make our work easier and help eliminate counterfeits that have been flooding the region.”
Gulu City Deputy Mayor Christine Olok praised JMS for selecting Gulu and pledged municipal support, including tarmacking the access road to the facility. She also encouraged JMS to employ local residents to tackle unemployment.
The Gulu branch, funded entirely through JMS revenue, joins existing branches in Arua, Mbarara, Jinja, Masaka, and Fort Portal. Another branch is under construction in Mbale, which will serve Eastern Uganda and parts of Kenya.
(Daily express)
