VANESSA A
Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs) in Rukungiri District have called for urgent payment of their allowances, which have been pending for nearly two months under their ongoing training program funded by the General Clinical Research Center (GCRC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health.
The concerns were raised during a sit-down protest by class representatives from classes A, B, and C, who refused to attend today’s scheduled training sessions until their allowances are cleared. The workers, who began their practical attachment at health centers on 10 October 2025, say they have not received any payment since the start of the practicum.
Benson Nagaba and Florence Tukahirwa, class leaders for B and C respectively, expressed frustration over mounting rental debts, noting that landlords are pressing them for overdue rent since they moved from Nyakaina to Makobore High School for training on 10 November 2025. “We have tried to raise our concerns, but those responsible have been avoiding us. We fear that after training ends, we might not be able to claim our dues,” they said.
Class A representative Babrah Atukwase and another participant, who preferred to remain anonymous, added that the delayed payments are causing serious domestic challenges. “Many of us are married and depend on these allowances to pay rent and support our families. The delay could worsen domestic tensions,” they said. They further noted that the issue affects approximately 210 trainees from different sub-counties across the district.
Responding to the concerns, Rukungiri District Health Educator, Alban Natukunda, acknowledged the delay, attributing it to funding challenges faced by the program’s sponsor. “We are aware of the situation. The allowances have been delayed due to challenges from the funder. However, all trainees are registered, and records are up-to-date. Once the funds are received, payments will be made,” Natukunda assured, urging the trainees not to fear that their money has been lost.
