Health 26 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Butebo Health Centers Grapple with Severe Staff Shortages
Two critical health centers in Butebo District, Uganda, are severely understaffed, with only two health workers each serving thousands of residents, threatening basic healthcare delivery. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/two-health-workers-serve-thousands-as-butebo-health-centres-struggle-5571648
Kadakolene and Nasuleta Health Centre II facilities in Butebo District, which were reopened to bring healthcare closer to the populace, are now facing immense challenges due to a critical shortage of personnel. Each facility is currently staffed by only two health workers.
Kadakolene Health Centre II caters to approximately 3,000 individuals, while Nasuleta Health Centre II serves around 7,700 people. These centers, built a decade ago, became operational about a year ago after years of inactivity.
Dr. Lawrence Onyuu, the Butebo District Health Officer, highlighted the district’s overall deficit, stating that Butebo has only 125 health workers against an approved need of 450, leaving a gap of 325. “Our staffing level stands at 28 per cent. It is unfortunate that for the last five years, the district has never recruited health workers since 2020,” Dr. Onyuu explained.
The district has repeatedly petitioned the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Finance, and Ministry of Public Service regarding this shortage without a response. The few available health workers are under immense pressure, often leading to exhaustion and burnout as they juggle patient care, record-keeping, and health education.
Local leaders acknowledge the benefits of having these facilities accessible but lament the long waiting times caused by the insufficient staff. “We get the required services, but the only challenge is the time spent at the facility, which is quite long because of the absence of enough health workers,” said Moses Mpima, a resident.
Butebo District Chairman Sam Keddi confirmed the staffing gaps but noted that recruitment is dependent on the central government’s authorization and the available wage bill. While efforts are underway to address the shortage, the current situation jeopardizes the quality and timely delivery of essential health services to the community.