Health 24 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Budaka Residents Lament Corruption, Poor Healthcare Access
Residents of Budaka District have voiced their frustrations over widespread corruption and substandard healthcare services, forcing them to pay for essential medical supplies and treatments that should be free at government facilities. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/budaka-residents-decry-corruption-poor-health-services-5570174
Residents in Budaka District are expressing deep dissatisfaction with the quality of healthcare and accusing health workers and local officials of rampant corruption. Many citizens report being forced to purchase essential medicines, mama kits, and even pay for ambulance services, despite these supposed to be provided by the government.
During an impromptu visit by the State Minister for Local Government, Justine Nameere, residents shared harrowing experiences. For instance, one individual recounted being asked to pay up to Shs200,000 for government ambulance fuel to reach Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, a cost prohibitive for many. Others described being given prescriptions to buy medicines from private pharmacies when the health center was out of stock.
While the in-charge of Budaka Health Centre IV acknowledged charging a Shs60,000 fuel fee for ambulance services, she maintained that scans and drugs are provided free of charge. However, the sheer volume of complaints suggests a systemic issue. The district, which lacks a government hospital, relies on a network of Health Centre IIIs, IIs, and one Health Centre IV.
Minister Nameere expressed shock at the allegations and has ordered a thorough investigation by anti-corruption agencies. She indicated that some arrested officials were willing to become state witnesses, pointing to potential widespread graft. The probe also extended to other sectors, including education and the Parish Development Model, with students at Iki-iki Secondary School reporting teacher absenteeism and demands for extra fees.
Minister Nameere vowed to extend the anti-corruption crackdown to neighboring districts, emphasizing the government’s commitment to eradicating corruption and improving service delivery. The operation has led to the arrest of several departmental heads and junior officials, highlighting the pervasive nature of the problem.