MBARARA DISTRICT – Hon. Barugahara Balaam Ateenyi has paid a surprise visit to Bwizibwera Health Center IV in Kashari North, Mbarara District, to assess service delivery and accountability at the facility.
The unannounced inspection is part of the Ministry of Local Government’s ongoing campaign to monitor performance of public institutions and ensure citizens receive quality services.
Bwizibwera HC IV serves a large population from Kashari and neighboring Buhweju District. In recent months, residents have called for the facility to be upgraded, citing drug stock-outs, inadequate bed capacity, and limited specialized services to match the growing demand.
During the visit, Hon. Balaam interacted with both patients and community members. Some patients told the minister they are treated well by the health workers.
However, residents pushed back on that claim, saying patients are afraid to speak out because they are already receiving treatment and fear victimization. Community members also expressed mixed feelings about the doctors and those in charge, with some raising concerns about absenteeism and poor handling of complaints.
Addressing the concerns, the Minister of Local Government pledged to organize a baraza at Bwizibwera to provide a platform for residents to openly expose corruption and other challenges affecting service delivery.
“We must hear the truth from the people. This baraza will give you the freedom to speak out so that as Ministry of Local Government we can take action against anyone frustrating service delivery,” Hon. Balaam said.
He noted that findings from the inspection will be forwarded to the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to identify gaps and mobilize support for the facility.
Today’s visit adds to a series of surprise inspections Hon. Balaam has conducted across the country as Minister of Local Government, including a recent visit to Busiu HC IV in Mbale where he flagged overcrowding and called for urgent expansion, more staff, and equipment.