The State House Health Monitoring Unit (HMU) has launched an in-depth probe into the theft of government drugs and medical supplies from Ntara Health Centre IV and Mahyoro Health Centre III in Kitagwenda District.
The investigation follows the arrest of a boda-boda rider found transporting a sack of medical supplies labelled “Government of Uganda – Not for Sale.”
The arrest, logged under Vide KGD-CRB437/24, led to the recovery of items including paracetamol tablets, Cotrimoxazole capsules, and gloves.
Police intercepted the suspect near Mahyoro Health Centre III. Preliminary findings indicate the drugs were sold to the suspect by two health officials, according to a December 27, 2024 letter signed by Dr Warren Naamara, the executive director of the HMU.
Dr Naamara identified the implicated officials as Ronald Mukamasimwe, Assistant Inventory Management Officer at Ntara Health Centre IV, and Julius Businge, Health Information Assistant at Mahyoro Health Centre III.
Both officials, tasked with managing medical stores, have since gone into hiding.
“These actions constitute a breach of the Anti-Corruption Act of 2009,” Dr Naamara stated, adding that the officials have been instructed to appear at HMU offices in Nakasero on January 7, 2025, to explain their involvement.
The HMU has also directed the Kitagwenda District Chief Administrative Officer to take disciplinary measures against the officials as per Public Service Standing Orders. Certified copies of the officials’ appointment letters and related documents have been requested to aid investigations.
“This incident underscores the urgent need for stringent oversight in managing medical supplies in public health facilities,” Dr Naamara stressed, calling on local authorities and the public to collaborate in curbing corruption.
The HMU assured the public that efforts are underway to hold those responsible accountable and safeguard the healthcare system.
“We are determined to protect public access to essential medicines and rebuild trust in government health facilities,” Dr Naamara told the Nile Post.
The arrest and subsequent investigations have reignited calls for stronger safeguards in Uganda’s healthcare sector. Residents have urged swift action to prevent a recurrence of such incidents.
The State House Health Monitoring Unit’s proactive measures signal a renewed commitment to addressing corruption and ensuring the integrity of healthcare delivery across the country.
