MBALE, Uganda – Minister of Local Government Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi has called for the urgent expansion of Busiu Health Centre IV in Mbale District after a surprise inspection found the facility struggling to cope with a growing number of patients.
The inspection, conducted on this morning, involved officials from the Regional Internal Security Office (RISO), the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and the State House Anti-Corruption Unit. The visit formed part of the government’s ongoing efforts to assess service delivery in public institutions and strengthen accountability.
During the inspection, Barugahara praised the health workers he found on duty, describing their commitment as an example of professionalism in public service.
Among those recognised were Dr. Mawumbe Bernard, Dr. Balayo Isa Mustafa, midwives, nurses and other medical staff serving at the facility.
“I commend Dr. Mawumbe Bernard, Dr. Balayo Isa Mustafa, the midwives, nurses, and all health workers I found on duty. Your dedication and commitment to saving lives are truly appreciated,” the minister said.
While applauding the staff, the minister said the inspection revealed that Busiu Health Centre IV is the largest government health facility in Mbale District and is operating beyond its capacity.
According to Barugahara, the increasing number of patients has placed significant pressure on available infrastructure, medical equipment and staffing levels.
“Our inspection revealed that Busiu Health Centre IV is overwhelmed by the growing number of patients. The facility urgently requires expansion, additional health workers, and more medical equipment to improve service delivery and meet the healthcare needs of the people,” he said.
The minister noted that improving the facility would help reduce congestion, improve patient care and strengthen healthcare delivery in the district.
Barugahara said the Ministry of Local Government will work closely with the Ministry of Health and other relevant agencies to mobilise support for the health centre.
He described access to quality healthcare as a constitutional right and said government remains committed to improving public health services across the country.
“The Ministry of Local Government will work closely with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to ensure this critical facility receives the support it deserves,” he said.
Minister Balaam also warned public officials against absenteeism, negligence and the misuse of public resources, saying surprise inspections will continue across government institutions.
He urged civil servants to uphold integrity and remain committed to serving the public.
“To all public servants serving with integrity, thank you. To those who neglect their duties or misuse public resources, be warned: our unannounced inspections will continue. Every Ugandan deserves efficient, accountable, and people-centred public services,” he said.
Busiu Health Centre IV serves thousands of residents in Mbale District and surrounding communities. Like many public health facilities in Uganda, it faces challenges linked to increasing patient numbers, limited staffing and inadequate medical equipment.
The inspection highlights the government’s focus on improving accountability and identifying gaps in public service delivery through routine monitoring of health facilities.
The Ministry of Local Government is expected to engage the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders on possible interventions to expand the facility, recruit additional health workers and provide more medical equipment.
No timeline has yet been announced for implementing the proposed improvements, but the inspection has renewed attention on the need to strengthen healthcare services in eastern Uganda.