KAPTUM, KWEEN DISTRICT – Hon. Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, has visited Kaptum Health Center III in Kween District where he uncovered gross mismanagement and shoddy construction work at the facility.
The visit, which is part of the Minister’s monitoring tour of government projects in Sebei sub-region, turned dramatic after health workers and local leaders exposed a stalled and poorly executed construction project worth Shs 400 million.
Speaking to the Minister, the in-charge of Kaptum Health Center III revealed that the facility is overwhelmed by a high number of patients but has no adequate space to handle them. She said the situation has been worsened by an incomplete building that was meant to expand the health center.
According to Mr. Cherimo Fred, the LC III Chairperson of Kaptum Sub-county, government released Shs 400 million for the construction of a new block at the health center. However, the building is visibly incomplete and shows clear signs of shoddy work.
The construction contract was awarded to a company linked to Hon. Chemonges William, the area Member of Parliament.
When tasked to explain, the District Engineer failed to give a clear answer as to why he never inspected and supervised the construction works to ensure quality and value for money.
The response angered residents and prompted immediate action from the Anti-Corruption Unit, which was part of the Minister’s delegation. The District Engineer was arrested on the spot to assist with investigations.
Addressing residents who had gathered at the health center, Hon. Balaam assured them that government will not tolerate misuse of public funds.
“I have heard your complaints. The company belonging to the area MP that got this contract is going to be investigated. If found guilty of doing shoddy work, the directors will have to go to court and account for the Shs 400 million,” Hon. Balaam said.
He further directed that a comprehensive audit of the project be conducted and that construction be halted until investigations are complete.
