By Mulengera Reporters
Legislators from Bundibugyo and Zombo districts have raised concerns over the poor state of health infrastructure in their areas, citing the absence of government hospitals and the dire need for rehabilitation of existing health facilities.
The concerns were brought forward by Richard Muhumuza (Bwamba County) and Lawrence Songa (Ora County) during the parliamentary sitting on March 6, 2025. The two MPs tasked Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja to explain when the government would address these challenges.
Muhumuza highlighted the deteriorating condition of Bundibugyo General Hospital, pointing out its poor infrastructure, obsolete medical equipment, and severe understaffing.
“Bundibugyo General Hospital is in a terrible state. The infrastructure is crumbling, medical equipment is outdated, and we have an acute shortage of medical personnel. Despite repeated appeals from the district leadership and MPs, the government has not provided a satisfactory response,” said Muhumuza.
He added, “The X-ray machine broke down last year, forcing patients to travel to Fort Portal for imaging services. When will the government rehabilitate the hospital and provide essential equipment such as an X-ray machine, operating tables, trolleys, lamps, and surgical instrument sets?”
In response, Prime Minister Nabbanja acknowledged the challenges faced by Bundibugyo General Hospital, including congestion, dilapidated infrastructure, outdated equipment, and understaffing.
“The Ministry of Health is prioritizing the expansion and rehabilitation of hospitals across the country to improve healthcare delivery. A nationwide assessment is underway to develop a comprehensive plan that includes infrastructure upgrades, procurement of modern medical equipment, and improvements in water and electricity supply,” said Nabbanja.
She further revealed that the government is working to recruit additional healthcare professionals and provide continuous training to enhance service delivery.
“In 2019, assessments condemned key facilities at Bundibugyo Hospital, including the Outpatient Department and Maternity Ward. The Ministry of Health is considering interim measures such as allocating funds for urgent renovations and deploying more medical personnel while plans for a new district hospital are being finalized,” she added.
Meanwhile, Songa (Ora County) questioned the Prime Minister on whether the government had plans to establish a district hospital in Zombo and the progress of such efforts.
“In the absence of a district hospital, can the government provide full financial, personnel, and infrastructural support to Holy Family Missionary Hospital in Nyapea? Additionally, why hasn’t the government upgraded Nebbi General Hospital to a Regional Referral Hospital to serve the Greater Nebbi region?” asked Songa.
Nabbanja assured Parliament that the government recognized the urgent need for a district hospital in Zombo.
“Feasibility studies and site assessments are ongoing, and the government plans to secure funding for construction in the 2025/26 financial year,” she stated.
Regarding support for Holy Family Missionary Hospital, Nabbanja acknowledged its critical role in providing healthcare services to the people of Zombo and neighboring areas. She confirmed that the government is considering infrastructure improvements to strengthen its capacity-Parliament Watch. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
