Residents of Kyabakuza in Masaka are fuming over the unfulfilled promise of a new health facility. A project initially budgeted at 6 billion Ugandan shillings for the construction and upgrade of Kyabakuza Health Center to a level four facility has stalled, leaving them with an incomplete structure and limited healthcare options.
A Glimmer of Hope Dashed
The project, launched in 2022 with the expectation of completion in 2023, was met with optimism by residents like Matia Lubalanga and Jane Mbabazzi. However, construction abruptly stopped, dashing their hopes for improved healthcare services. Now, they face long journeys to access proper medical care at Masaka Regional Referral Hospital.
Blame Game and Unanswered Questions
Dr. Patrick Kasendwa, the city health officer, confirms a mere 1 billion shillings out of the allocated funds were used. The remaining sum was shockingly returned to the national treasury, allegedly due to "political infighting" among Masaka's leaders.
MP Mathias Mpuuga Nsamba blames this turn of events on political turmoil, while city leaders point fingers at the city town clerk, Vincent Okrut, accusing him of negligence and absenteeism. Okrut vehemently denies these claims.
Residents Demand Accountability, A Glimmer of Hope Remains
Disillusioned residents are calling for accountability and transparency from their leaders. Despite the setbacks, Dr. Kasendwa assures them the maternity ward will be operational next year, offering a sliver of hope for expectant mothers.
Masaka's Healthcare Future in Jeopardy
The stalled project in Kyabakuza exposes a larger issue of mismanagement and lack of ethical governance in Masaka. This raises serious concerns about the future of healthcare development in the region. The well-being of residents hangs in the balance, demanding a swift resolution and a commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources.