The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has warned against the growing number of individuals impersonating medical professionals, saying the practice is partly driven by the shortage of qualified healthcare workers in the country.
Mayiga made the remarks while meeting a delegation from St. Padrepio Hospital, a community-based health facility in Butozi, Kaliisizo, Buddu. The delegation was led by Henry Jjemba Lutaaya and visited the Buganda Kingdom headquarters at Bulange, Mengo, to appreciate the Kingdom’s support during fundraising efforts for the hospital.
He cautioned that the proliferation of unqualified individuals posing as health workers poses a serious risk to public health, especially in rural communities where access to certified medical services remains limited.
“The shortage of trained medical personnel has created space for people to impersonate healthcare providers. I remain hopeful that communities will become more vigilant and seek proper medical services,” he said.
Mayiga noted that many common illnesses—such as diarrhoeal diseases, infections linked to poor hygiene and diet, and malaria—continue to claim lives unnecessarily due to delayed or improper treatment.
He praised the efforts of St. Padrepio Hospital, describing it as a strong example of community-driven initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access in underserved areas.
The Katikkiro further reaffirmed Buganda Kingdom’s commitment to improving the welfare of its subjects, highlighting priorities such as access to adequate nutrition, clean water, and safe living environments free from livestock-related contamination.
He said these efforts align with ongoing Kingdom health support programmes across communities, including the “Tubeere Balamu” health insurance initiative.
Buganda Kingdom Minister for Social Services (Health, Education and the Office of the Nnaabagereka), Choltilda Nakate Kikomeko, also commended the hospital team for strengthening collaboration with the Kingdom and encouraged them to work closely with Kingdom health initiatives to expand affordable healthcare access.
Henry Jjemba Lutaaya said St. Padrepio Hospital was established to serve residents of Kaliisizo and surrounding areas, and thanked the Kingdom for its continued support in amplifying their outreach through CBS and BBS media platforms.
The delegation also presented a certificate of appreciation to the Kingdom in recognition of its ongoing support.