Village Health Teams operating in Nakawa Division have appealed to Kampala Capital City Authority to improve their welfare by increasing allowances, providing essential working tools and issuing official uniforms and identification cards to support their work in communities.
The appeal was made during a consultative meeting with KCCA officials at Nakawa Division, where the volunteers discussed ways of strengthening community-based health service delivery.
Led by their coordinator, Taaka Annet Obole, the VHTs outlined several challenges, particularly when operating in hard-to-reach areas.
They cited lack of transport and basic equipment such as gumboots, umbrellas, raincoats, bags and other protective gear.
“We always strive to reach every person in our communities, but sometimes it becomes very difficult due to lack of equipment and support,” Obole said.
She added that the absence of official identification often breeds suspicion among community members during household visits and health outreach activities.
“When we go to homes to provide health services and ask questions, people doubt us because we do not have identification. They think we are not recognised or that we are working illegally,” she said.
The VHTs also raised concerns about the small allowances they receive, saying the support does not match the demands of their daily work and limits their effectiveness.
Responding to the concerns, the Deputy Executive Director of KCCA, Benon Mugenyi, assured the health workers that the authority is committed to improving their working conditions.
“We are going to work towards providing you with the tools you need so that you can perform your duties more effectively,” Mugenyi said.
He commended the VHTs for their dedication and voluntary service, particularly during public health emergencies.
“You played a critical role during disease outbreaks such as COVID-19. Your commitment to voluntary service, even in difficult times, is highly appreciated,” he said.
Mariam Namayanja, a private secretary, said she would present the VHTs’ concerns to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni when an opportunity arises after the elections.
The meeting underscored the central role played by Village Health Teams in community health delivery and renewed calls for sustained institutional support to enable them to serve effectively.