Residents and leaders of Ngogwe Sub-county and Nkokonjeru Town Council in Buikwe District are celebrating a major boost to healthcare services, following the elevation of two local health facilities.
The Ministry of Health recently upgraded Ngogwe Health Center III to Health Center IV and Nkokonjeru Health Center II to Health Center III, in a bid to improve healthcare delivery in the district.
The upgrades, valued at shs1.4 billion , include new theater blocks, waiting sheds, and a fully equipped delivery ward.
These improvements are funded by the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers Program (UgIFT) and special grants.
Oliver Naikoba, in charge of Ngogwe Health Center IV, expressed optimism about the changes, but also highlighted existing challenges.
“While the upgrade is a step in the right direction, we still face difficulties handling emergencies. Our tricycle ambulance, which transports patients to Kawolo Hospital, struggles with the poor road conditions,” she said.
“This often delays transfers, especially during critical situations.”
This upgraded healthcare infrastructure is seen as a vital first step toward addressing the longstanding challenges in Buikwe.
However, as noted by many stakeholders, continued support and investment are essential for ensuring that the improvements lead to sustainable, quality healthcare for all.
Local residents have voiced their joy, praising the government’s efforts to improve healthcare in these previously underserved areas.
Many had been forced to travel long distances to access medical care, often struggling with inadequate treatment due to the shortage of medicines and healthcare staff.
Bernadette Nabuuma, Buikwe District Health Officer, noted that the health center’s upgrades come at a critical time as the number of patients seeking care has been rising daily, Nabuuma reported some cults in Buikwe district that frustrates government's efforts on immunization.
“This elevation will ease the pressure on our facilities. However, we are still facing challenges, including resistance from some cult beliefs who reject vaccination efforts.”
Buikwe District Chairperson, Jimmy Kanaabi, raised concerns over the ongoing shortage of medical supplies and health workers in government rural medical facilities forcing patients to resort to self-medication.
“Many residents are resorting to self-medication, which has led to the persistence of diseases and preventable deaths,” he warned.
Dr. Michael Lulume Bayiga, the Buikwe South legislator, echoed Kanaabi’s concerns, calling for further investments.
“While the upgrades are welcome, there is still a need for adequate staffing, medical equipment, incinerators, placenta pits and even housing for medical staff. We must ensure the proper infrastructure is in place to guarantee quality healthcare.”
On behalf of the government, Buikwe MP Diana Mutasingwa reassured the public that efforts to upgrade and rehabilitate health facilities will continue across the district.
“We are committed to improving healthcare services in Buikwe,” she said.
“I will push for an increase in the supply of medicines and ensure that Kawolo Hospital’s ambulance remains operational.”
The upgraded health centers are set to benefit not only the residents of Ngogwe and Nkokonjeru but also people from surrounding areas, including the lake shores of Buikwe South, Mukono South, and even Buvuma Island.