The prolonged closure of Kilembe Mines Hospital in Kasese District, which was devastated by floods, has raised alarm bells in Parliament, with lawmakers expressing frustration over the lack of progress in its restoration.
In February 2023, the government halted financial assistance to the hospital following repeated flooding incidents in the River Nyamwamba catchment area. This decision was conveyed by Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng in a letter to the Chairperson of the Committee of Health.
During a meeting of the Committee on Government Assurance and Implementation held at Kilembe hospital on Friday, April 6th, 2024, stakeholders voiced their dismay at the continued delay in reopening the facility.
Edson Kambere, an engineer from Kilembe Mines, highlighted the availability of land for the hospital’s reconstruction but noted a lack of communication from the Ministry of Health.
Richard Bomera, the LC3 Chairperson of Bulembia Division, detailed the challenges faced in securing government support for the hospital, including disruptions in medicine supply and fund transfers to other facilities. He cited a Parliament resolution from over two years ago calling for the hospital’s operationalization, which has yet to be honored.
Members of Parliament, including Hon. Ferigo Kambale (NRM, Kasese Municipality), criticized the Ministry of Health’s actions, accusing them of disregarding parliamentary decisions and neglecting the healthcare needs of the community.
Political tensions were also highlighted, with accusations against district leadership for allegedly hindering efforts to reinstate the hospital, possibly due to political rivalries.
Hon. Florence Kabugho, the Kasese District Woman MP, expressed frustration over the challenging terrain of Kasese and the lack of access to healthcare services due to the hospital’s closure.
Hon. Sylvia Tumwekwase, the District Woman MP for Kamwenge, emphasized the vital role of Kilembe Hospital in providing healthcare to the region.
Assuring action, Hon. Stephen Sserubula, the Lugazi Municipality MP, pledged Parliament’s commitment to ensuring the hospital’s reinstatement.
Deputy Chairperson of the committee, Hon. Joyce Bagala, affirmed Parliament’s determination to follow up on the government’s promise to reconstruct Kilembe Mines Hospital, promising further engagement with the Ministry of Health.
The hospital, which previously employed 82 staff, now operates with only 14 due to funding gaps.
