Health 21 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Tororo Hospital's Missing X-ray Machine Endangers Lives Amid Corruption Probe
Tororo District Referral Hospital in eastern Uganda has lacked a functional X-ray machine for over seven years, forcing patients to seek costly services elsewhere and risking lives in emergencies. A recent government inspection uncovered corruption, leading to arrests and highlighting broader healthcare failures. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/lack-of-x-ray-machine-at-tororo-hospital-puts-patients-lives-at-risk-5431374
Tororo District General Hospital, a vital referral center for over 500,000 people in eastern Uganda and parts of Kenya, has been without a working X-ray machine since 2019. The equipment, delivered by the Health Ministry, remains unused, crippling diagnostic services.
Health workers report constant delays in treating emergencies like accidents and fractures. Patients, including children injured in recent crashes, must travel to Mbale or private clinics, incurring high costs and risks. Hospital administrator Proscovia Awino noted that these referrals have caused deaths and overcrowding.
Expectant mothers and accident victims shared stories of paying Shs20,000 to Shs100,000 for scans at private facilities, often selling assets to afford them. Caregivers also complain about buying drugs externally despite hospital stocks.
During a spot-check by Inspector General of Government Lady Justice Aisha Naluzze Batala, corruption surfaced. Three staff, including Awino, were arrested for charging for free services and poor hygiene despite available supplies. Savio Kakooza Ntensibe criticized the negligence denying citizens essential care.
This crisis underscores deep flaws in Uganda’s public health infrastructure.
Source: Daily Monitor