By Kenneth Wamatoyi
BUTALEJA
At least 10 patients in Butaleja District have filed complaints against the in-charge of Nabiganda Health Centre IV over alleged exorbitant extortion at the facility.
The patients reported their grievances to the Nabiganda police on Monday 06 January 2025, claiming they are often required to pay for services such as blood pressure screening, ulcer screening, and typhoid screening, among others.
They further explained that Dr. Mwesigwa, the in-charge of Nabiganda Health Centre IV, justifies these charges by stating that the board governing the controversial health center approved cost-sharing measures to help improve the services provided by the support staff.
However, a police officer, who requested to remain anonymous due to legal restrictions, assured that a thorough investigation will be carried out, and Dr. Mwesigwa will be held accountable.
Meanwhile, Jimmy Nambiro, the Assistant RDC for Butaleja District, in charge of education and health, stated that he has begun inspecting health centers across the district to assess the situation in the health sector now that schools are on a long holiday.
Nambiro emphasized that his inspections will help him determine whether there is an adequate supply of drugs and proper hygiene in health facilities. He also warned health workers against absenteeism or reporting late for duty.
Nambiro directed the District Health Officer and Chief Administrative Officer to take immediate action against corrupt health workers. He encouraged others with similar concerns to report such cases.
Meanwhile, Henry Isogoli, the District Inspector of Health, expressed concern over the rising cases of malaria in Butaleja District. He noted that children are the most affected, attributing the increase to the breeding of Anopheles mosquitoes, poor practices in using treated mosquito nets, and the need for timely medication.
Isogoli also announced that the government is planning to fumigate the mosquitoes in March. Additionally, he highlighted that the district is facing a shortage of drugs to effectively manage malaria.
