Balaam reaffirmed that access to quality healthcare is a constitutional right for every Ugandan and pledged that the Ministry of Local Government would work closely with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to strengthen the health centre.
The Minister of Local Government, Barugahara Balaam Ateenyi, has called for urgent government intervention to expand Busiu Health Centre IV in Mbale District after a surprise inspection revealed that the facility is struggling to cope with a growing number of patients.
The unannounced inspection was conducted on Wednesday night by the minister, accompanied by the Regional Internal Security Officer (RISO), officers from the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and the State House Anti-Corruption Unit.
Busiu Health Centre IV, the largest public health facility in Mbale District, was found to be operating under immense pressure due to increasing patient numbers, highlighting the need for expanded infrastructure, more health workers, and additional medical equipment.
During the visit, Balaam commended the health workers who were on duty, praising their commitment to providing healthcare services despite the challenges facing the facility.
He specifically recognised Dr. Mawumbe Bernard, Dr. Balayo Isa Mustafa, midwives, nurses, and other staff members for their dedication to saving lives and ensuring patients receive treatment.
“The facility urgently requires expansion, additional health workers, and more medical equipment to improve service delivery and meet the healthcare needs of the people,” the minister said.
Balaam reaffirmed that access to quality healthcare is a constitutional right for every Ugandan and pledged that the Ministry of Local Government would work closely with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to strengthen the health centre.
He also warned public servants against negligence and corruption, saying the government would continue conducting unannounced inspections to promote accountability and improve service delivery.
“To all public servants serving with integrity, thank you. To those who neglect their duties or misuse public resources, be warned: our unannounced inspections will continue. Every Ugandan deserves efficient, accountable, and people-centred public services,” he said.
The minister concluded by calling on all stakeholders to work together in building a cleaner, more transparent and effective local government system that delivers quality services to citizens.