By Patriot Corps
KATAKWI: The Vice President and Woman MP for Katakwi District, Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, has reassured Ugandans of the government’s commitment to ensuring access to high-quality healthcare across the country.
“The government is committed to its policy of providing at least a Health Centre IV in every constituency and a Health Centre III in each sub-county,” Alupo stated.
Earlier this year, the government allocated UGX 13.39 billion for upgrading Health Centre IIIs to Health Centre IVs and renovating existing ones in the 2023/24 financial year.
Alupo made these remarks on Friday while handing over medical equipment donated by Stanbic Bank to Katakwi District General Hospital. The donation, valued at UGX 30 million, included baby warmers, baby incubators, ordinary beds, delivery beds, mama kits, and health monitors.
The Vice President emphasized that a healthy population is essential for building the country’s economic base, noting that the medical equipment donated by Stanbic Bank will enhance healthcare delivery in the district.
She urged hospital management to ensure the medical equipment is used properly and maintained regularly. Alupo also encouraged the local community to focus on preventive health measures rather than relying solely on curative care.
“Proper nutrition is crucial as it strengthens the body’s immunity to fight diseases. Ensure you maintain a balanced diet,” she advised.
Alupo praised Stanbic Bank for being a responsible partner in helping the government bridge gaps in healthcare delivery.
Usuk County MP Bosco Okiror commended the bank, stating that the donation would help reduce the need for patient referrals.
“This gesture not only enhances the bank’s reputation but also demonstrates that Stanbic Bank is a true friend of both the local community and the government,” Okiror said.
Dr. Joseph Emuron, the Medical Superintendent of Katakwi District General Hospital, expressed his gratitude to Stanbic Bank, noting that the donation would greatly assist in saving mothers and their babies. He shared that Katakwi Hospital, originally established as a dispensary in 1956, was upgraded to a Health Centre IV in 2011 and later to hospital status in 2013.
Currently, the hospital handles about 4,500 outpatients each month, and its maternity ward admits 250 mothers and 400 other patients with various health complications. Dr. Emuron emphasized that the newly donated equipment would significantly reduce referrals for premature babies.
“Referral cases of premature babies will decrease as we now have baby warmers and incubators in place,” he said.
However, Dr. Emuron informed the Vice President that the hospital remains understaffed, with only three doctors currently running the facility, while he must also manage administrative duties.
Diana Ondoga, the Manager of Corporate Social Investments at Stanbic Bank, revealed that a total of 45 health facilities nationwide have benefited from the bank’s support. She highlighted that the bank’s maternal health program has contributed to reducing maternal deaths by ensuring mothers give birth in health facilities.
Ondoga further shared that the bank aims to train small and medium entrepreneurs to support the growth of the country’s economy.
