The construction of a bunker to house an X-ray machine at Luwero Hospital has been delayed due to financial constraints and the outbreak of Monkeypox.
The Ministry of Health donated the X-ray machine to Luwero Hospital in March after public outcry over the lack of diagnostic services. However, the machine remains idle at Butabika Hospital, awaiting the construction of the required protective bunker.
Luwero District LCV Chairman Erastus Kibirango expressed regret over the delay, citing a budget shortfall as the primary issue. The district initially allocated 68 million shillings for the project but later discovered it required 80 million shillings. “We are tasking the District Health Department and the hospital to ensure the funds are realized so construction can commence,” Kibirango said.
Dr. Innocent Nkonwa, the Luwero District Health Officer, revealed that while the funds have since been secured, construction was delayed further as the ward intended for the bunker was being used to house Monkeypox patients. He noted that the Ministry of Health advised postponing the project to safeguard patients’ health.
“We have now discharged all Monkeypox patients and agreed with the Ministry of Health to manage them at home to allow the contractor to proceed with the construction,” Dr. Nkonwa explained.
Dr. Bruno Oyik, Medical Superintendent at Luwero Hospital, confirmed that all seven Monkeypox patients have been discharged, clearing the way for the bunker construction to begin. “At least 30 patients require X-ray services daily at this hospital,” Dr. Oyik stated, emphasizing the urgent need for the facility.
The absence of an operational X-ray machine has forced patients to seek services at private facilities, which many cannot afford. District Councillor Victor Nabukenya recounted her own experience following an accident, saying, “Patients who cannot afford private services are forced to go home without a proper diagnosis.”
Luwero Hospital sees over 1,000 patients and 500 maternity admissions monthly, with many needing X-ray services for conditions such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, trauma, and lung infections. Upgraded to hospital status in the 2019/20 financial year, it has operated without an X-ray machine since then, hindering service delivery.
With construction set to begin, health officials and patients alike hope the X-ray machine will soon become operational, easing the burden on both the hospital and the community.