Alleged theft of government drugs by cartels, involving medical staff, law enforcement officers, and unscrupulous individuals, is severely impacting service delivery in Busoga and across the nation. This criminal activity jeopardizes the lives of millions of Ugandans who are meant to benefit from these essential medications.
Busoga, particularly prone to drug thefts, is currently under scrutiny as authorities intensify efforts to apprehend those involved. One significant case involves Dr. Abubakar Nakendo, the medical Superintendent of Bugiri General Hospital, who is now on the run after being accused of extortion, maladministration, and theft of government stores.
The Deputy Inspector General of Government (IGG), Ms. Anne Twinomugisha Muhairwe, directed Bugiri District Police Commander, Mr. Godwin Ochaki, to arrest Dr. Nakendo immediately. The investigation revealed that Dr. Nakendo was absent during an on-spot inspection at the hospital, prompting the IGG to take action.
During an impromptu inspection, it was discovered that Dr. Nakendo was perpetually absent at the facility, employing a deceptive tactic of signing the attendance register when absent. Furthermore, medical supplies, marked “Government of Uganda not for sale,” were found at Dr. Nakendo’s private clinic, Bugiri Medical Services, raising suspicions of theft and improper use.
The inspection also highlighted a shortage of essential medical supplies at Bugiri hospital, affecting patient care. The IGG’s directive for Dr. Nakendo’s arrest and interdiction underscores the gravity of the allegations against him.
The investigation into drug theft in Busoga is ongoing, with law enforcement officials working to address the issue of unqualified personnel and theft of drugs from hospitals to private clinics. The National Drug Authority (NDA) has also been involved in closing illegal drug outlets and confiscating millions of shillings worth of drugs.
Despite efforts to digitize the drug delivery system by the National Medical Stores (NMS), cartels continue to exploit loopholes in the distribution process. The Inspector General of Government (IGG) report from 2021 indicates that drug theft is the most common form of corruption in the healthcare sector, posing significant risks to patients’ lives.
The NDA revealed that Busoga Sub-region faces challenges of drug hawking and the sale of counterfeit drugs in makeshift markets. The spokesperson for NDA, Mr. Abiaz Rwamwiri, emphasized the prevalence of this issue, citing a recent raid in Kitgum where drugs and equipment worth Shs2 billion were confiscated, involving a hospital worker in stores.
