The people of Kasese, along with local leaders, called on the government to reinstate adequate medical supplies to Kilembe Mines Hospital. The hospital has been grappling with drug shortages since May 2022, following the expiration of the tripartite agreement between the Ministry of Health, Kilembe Mines Hospital, and the Uganda Catholic Medical Bureau (UCMB).
After the agreement’s termination, the Kasese Catholic Diocese initiated its health facility, Mt St Mary’s Hospital, in Kasese Town. In response, Dr Diana Atwine, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, directed the deactivation of Kilembe Mines Hospital’s credit line from Joint Medical Stores (JMS) on December 2, 2022.
The directive also included the transfer of EMHS Shs353,491,221 to other health facilities in Kasese Municipality and Kasese District. Despite opposition from local leaders and the Parliamentary Health Committee’s recommendation to reinstate the hospital’s eligibility for essential medicines and health supplies, these suggestions were not implemented.
In a letter dated January 31, 2023, Minister of Health, Dr Jane Ruth Aceng, communicated the government’s decision to withdraw all support from Kilembe Mines Hospital. She cited the hospital’s proximity to the River Nyamwamba catchment and a history of flooding as reasons for the withdrawal.
The cessation of drug supplies has resulted in residents having to travel considerable distances to access healthcare services. Ms Stella Kighema highlighted the vital role the hospital played in aiding expectant mothers from mountainous areas.
Residents expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s decision, with some emphasizing the hardship caused by the discontinuation of services. Ms Pioza Biira mentioned resorting to purchasing drugs from private clinics, and Mr Aaron Kule criticized the decision for denying essential health services to many.
Mr Dan Zehekiah Mbahimba, the Kilembe Mines Hospital Administrator, revealed the hospital’s heavy reliance on patient fees and well-wishers, emphasizing the inadequacy of these funds to maintain the hospital and provide effective healthcare.
Plans are underway, led by Mr Eliphaz Bukombi Muhindi, the Kasese District chairperson, to engage the government and urge a reconsideration of the decision. He emphasized the impracticality of closing down a health facility like a bar, highlighting the need for government support to ensure the hospital’s full functionality.
