Kamuli Residents Demand Health Centre Upgrade Amidst Severe Shortages

Residents of Kagumba Sub-county in Kamuli District are urgently calling for the upgrade of Kagumba Health Centre III to a Health Centre IV. The current facility struggles to meet the demands of the growing population, forcing many to travel as far as 36 kilometers to the nearest hospital. This arduous journey often means seeking medical attention only when conditions have severely worsened, while others resort to traditional healers or unlicensed drug shops due to limited access.

These pressing concerns were voiced during an annual community health outreach organized by The Vine Uganda. Moreen Namwase, a village health team leader, emphasized that the large turnout at the outreach underscored the scarcity of services. “The overwhelming turnout today is a reminder that the people of Kagumba are far from services,” she stated, explaining that drug supplies are frequently insufficient for the number of people needing care.

Kamuli District’s Chief Administrative Officer, Ben Lawrence Marley, acknowledged the healthcare gaps in Kagumba and surrounding areas. He indicated that the district is evaluating Kagumba as a potential site for an upgrade to Health Centre IV, alongside other locations, to improve access to health workers, equipment, and medicines. “This awareness raised for the demand is good input, and definitely we shall take it up for better services to the people,” Marley assured.

The recent medical camp provided care to 1,083 patients, with services ranging from general medical attention to eye and dental care. The Vine Uganda noted that many more were unable to be seen due to time and resource constraints, though they were provided with medicine and referred to local facilities. The organization highlighted that such outreach events are crucial in identifying and addressing underserved areas.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kamuli-residents-seek-upgrade-of-health-centre-amid-shortages-5636526