Health workers in the Bunyoro sub-region have been warned against absenteeism, with authorities vowing strict action against those who neglect their duties.
Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, issued the warning while handing over a fully equipped theatre at Kigorobya Health Center IV in Hoima District on Friday. The facility was constructed with funding from the Bank of Uganda (BOU).
Atwine stated that absenteeism among health workers endangers patients’ lives and must not be tolerated. She emphasized that those failing to serve Ugandans diligently will face investigation, arrest, and prosecution.
“I have received multiple complaints that health workers in this region frequently absent themselves without official leave. This cripples health service delivery,” Atwine noted.
She directed Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs) and District Health Officers (DHOs) to remove habitual absentees from the government payroll. Atwine further stressed that medical services have no time limits, and health workers must always be available.
New Theatre to Improve Maternal Care
Atwine urged Hoima district officials to ensure proper utilization of the newly constructed theatre at Kigorobya Health Center IV.
Dr. Lawrence Baluku, the facility’s in-charge, said the theatre will significantly improve maternal healthcare, benefiting not only Kigorobya but the entire district and neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
“Kigorobya Health Center IV handles about 1,500 deliveries annually. Each month, we refer 30 mothers in need of C-sections to Hoima Regional Referral Hospital due to a lack of theatre services. This new facility will reduce such referrals,” he explained.
Dr. Lawrence Tumusiime, speaking on behalf of the District Health Officer (DHO), noted that Hoima has 54,000 women of childbearing age, many of whom require C-sections.
He assured the public that the district is committed to maintaining and effectively utilizing the theatre.
Calls for More Health Infrastructure
Hoima LCV Chairperson Uthman Kadir Mugisa commended the Bank of Uganda for funding the project, noting that it will save lives and decongest Hoima Regional Referral Hospital. However, he urged the government to expand the regional hospital to address overcrowding.
Kigorobya County MP David Karubanga echoed this call, urging the government to upgrade and equip lower-level health facilities with drugs and medical personnel.
Suzan Kanyemibwa, BOU Secretary and head of the bank’s corporate social responsibility outreach program, emphasized that national prosperity depends on good health.
“It is critical to prioritize maternal healthcare. Investing in health is investing in Uganda’s future,” she said.
Construction of the theatre at Kigorobya Health Center IV began in 2022, and it is now fully equipped with an operation bed, baby warmer, emergency C-section kits, patient gowns, and theatre lights.
The facility serves over 30,000 people, including patients from the DRC, and is expected to significantly improve healthcare access in the region.