Mugabe R
The Rukungiri Resident District Commissioner, Steven Nsubuga Bewayo, has officially inaugurated the commencement of the Maternity Ward extension project at Bugangari Health Center 4 in Bugangari Parish, Bugangari Sub County, Rukungiri District. The construction is estimated to cost over 173 million and is scheduled to be completed within a six-month timeframe.
Bugangari Health Center 4, a government-funded public facility, plays a crucial role in catering to a significant population from the rift valley Sub Counties of Bugangari, Bikurungu Town Council, Bwambara Sub County, and some parts of Kanungu District.
Mugabirwe Gad, Chairperson of the Board of Governors for Bugangari Health Center 4, commended the government for its commitment to enhancing maternity services at the facility. He emphasized the need for improved accommodation and staffing, highlighting the inadequacy of the existing 9 beds, which were constructed in the 1950s.
Expressing concern over the challenge of understaffing, Byamukama Juston, the Chairperson of LC3 Bugangari Sub County, attributed the issue to frequent staff turnover due to accommodation shortages, as well as the absence of an ambulance and scan services.
Akasiima Mucunguzi, the Rukungiri District Health Officer, encouraged patients to bear with the inconveniences during the construction and the staffing challenges. He clarified that the district is grappling with a shortage of health workers due to the government’s suspension of recruitment, along with accommodation limitations. Mucunguzi revealed that only 10% of the required accommodation is available, and the district operates with only one ambulance.
Kyomukama Geoffrey, the Rukungiri Chairperson LC5, commended the government for funding the expansion of the maternity ward, emphasizing its significance as a basic service in the area. However, he cautioned women against taking advantage of care services and urged responsible family planning.
Resident District Commissioner Steven Nsubuga Bewayo expressed gratitude, recognizing the facility’s development. He highlighted the increase in bed capacity from 9 to 36 after the construction is completed and encouraged staff members to prioritize teamwork. Bewayo also cautioned the contractor to ensure both quality work and adherence to the specified deadline.
Mugiri Frank, the Director of Rwenkureijo Building Contractors, the company overseeing the project, assured that they would deliver a high-quality building within the stipulated timeframe.
