The First Deputy Prime Minister and Kamuli Woman MP, Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, has expressed concern over the state of government hospitals and healthcare facilities, calling for better equipment, essential drugs, and improved management to serve local patients effectively.
Kadaga, also the Minister for East African Community Affairs, said the government should lead in managing and improving its health facilities, with NGOs playing a supplementary role.
“I am going to strongly raise, push, and advocate for this,” she said.
Kadaga made the remarks while officiating at the Kamuli Independence Celebrations Kidney Health Camp, organized by Becky’s Child Foundation at the Kamuli District grounds.
The event promoted access, availability, and affordability of healthcare services to reduce disease burden and boost productivity.
“I am not happy that our government hospital is being supported by an NGO from Mexico. Ugandan taxpayers expect better services locally. I will follow up seriously in Parliament and Cabinet,” Kadaga said. She also stressed the importance of health awareness and expanding medical checkups.
Kadaga announced plans to establish five diagnostic centers in Busoga to provide kidney dialysis services, reducing the need for patients to travel to Kampala, where bureaucracy and exploitation often force them to abandon treatment.
The centers will be located in Kamuli (as a Centre of Excellence), Iganga, Mayuge, Bugiri, and Kaliro, in addition to the existing one at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital.
Uganda Kidney Association president Dr Joseph Gyagenda and Jinja Referral Hospital Consultant Dr Afizi Kibuuka urged the public to seek early screening and diagnosis for kidney conditions.
They also called on health workers to remain present at their workstations, treat patients with care, and offer reassurance.
“They must commend Becky’s Child Foundation for mobilizing resources and involving Mama Kadaga in this camp, which demonstrates her commitment to the people’s health,” Dr Gyagenda said.
Dr Kibuuka warned against prolonged use of cannulas, noting that it could lead to long-term heart and kidney problems.
Kamuli District Health Officer James Waako highlighted the need to equip grassroots health facilities, pointing out that rural areas often receive less attention and essential supplies compared to urban centers.
Becky’s Child Foundation Executive Director, Alitwala Rebecca Mubeezi, praised Kadaga for her dedication to community service and described the camp as a special independence gift to the people of Busoga.
“The Independence celebration through the Kidney Health Camp has been successful, providing vital health information, advice, and services. Having national consultants and Mama Kadaga present highlights the importance of such outreach,” Mubeezi said.
She also emphasized the need for mentorship, protection, and inclusion of vulnerable children and pledged to seek more resources for similar health initiatives.
Last month, the foundation screened over 560 people, while the current camp screened another 420 individuals.
