Health workers at Ishongororo Health Centre IV in Ibanda District have received a major boost following the commissioning of newly constructed staff quarters aimed at addressing long-standing accommodation challenges that have affected healthcare delivery at the facility.
For years, health workers stationed at the health centre have struggled with inadequate accommodation, forcing some medical personnel to reside far from their workplace. The situation often affected their ability to respond promptly to emergencies, particularly during night hours.
The newly constructed staff quarters, completed in two phases at a total cost of Shs148 million, are expected to improve the welfare of health workers while strengthening healthcare services for communities served by the facility.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony on Wednesday, Ibanda District Health Officer Dr. Julius Bamwine said the facility would enhance efficiency by enabling health workers to stay closer to patients and respond more quickly to medical needs.
"The challenge of accommodation has affected health service delivery for a long time. These staff quarters will enable our health workers to stay near the facility, respond quickly to emergencies, and provide better services to the community," Dr. Bamwine said.
District leaders urged health workers to use the new facility responsibly and remain committed to providing quality healthcare services.
Ibanda District Chairperson Happy Herbert Mayanja said improved working conditions should translate into better performance among health workers.
"Government and the district have invested resources to improve the working environment of our health workers. We now expect greater commitment, professionalism and better healthcare services for our people," Mayanja said.
Meanwhile, Ibanda Resident District Commissioner Godfrey Mbetegyereize called for increased accountability in the health sector, urging authorities to take action against absenteeism and poor performance while recognizing dedicated health workers.
"We must reward health workers who serve the public faithfully and take firm action against absenteeism and negligence. Accountability is key if we are to improve healthcare services across the district," Mbetegyereize said.
The commissioning was part of Ibanda District's broader efforts to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and improve access to quality health services.
Other projects commissioned included a perimeter fence at Kihani Health Centre III in Kikyenkye Sub-county, as well as a fence and borehole at Kashozi Health Centre III in Ishongororo Sub-county.
District officials said the projects will improve working conditions for health workers, enhance security at health facilities and increase access to healthcare services for residents across Ibanda District.
