RUBIRIZI, Uganda — Katunguru Health Centre III in Rubirizi District has been ranked the best improved health facility in the district for service delivery over the past year, following notable improvements in patient care, outreach services, and staff performance.
The recognition was announced during a rewarding ceremony held at the health facility headquarters, where staff members were awarded certificates and other incentives in appreciation of their performance.
Rubirizi District Health Officer Dr. Aidah Nankyinga commended health workers and local leaders for their commitment, noting that such recognition is aimed at motivating continued excellence and strengthening service delivery standards.
She said the district plans to conduct more training workshops for health workers to further improve leadership skills, professionalism, and performance evaluation systems.
Speaking at the same event, the In-Charge of Katunguru Health Centre III, Mbusa James, attributed the facility’s success to teamwork, discipline, commitment, hard work, respect, and professionalism among staff.
“We pledge to continue improving service delivery to our patients,” he said, noting that collaboration with local leaders has helped mobilize residents—especially fishermen and traders—to access government health services.
He added that despite Katunguru Sub-county being a relatively active trading and fishing hub, health workers have intensified community engagement to promote preventive care and early treatment.
One of the recognised staff members, Mpola Justus, thanked the Government of Uganda and the district health department for continuous support and capacity building. He said improved leadership, time management, and teamwork had played a key role in boosting performance.
He noted that the facility has expanded its outreach programmes, educating residents on healthy living and disease prevention, which has increased community trust and return visits for medical care. The facility currently manages over 75 HIV-positive patients monthly, admits more than 30 patients, and handles over five deliveries per week.
However, staff also highlighted challenges, including reluctance among some fishermen and traders to seek timely medical care, as well as lingering negative perceptions from past cases of poor staff attitudes. They urged the community to embrace early health-seeking behaviour and trust the facility’s services.
Katunguru Village Chairperson Kabagambe Gonzaga praised the government for bringing health services closer to communities around Lake Edward and Lake George, noting that residents previously struggled with limited access to care.
“Our health centre has helped us a lot by providing first aid and essential services,” he said, commending health workers and the district health department for improving service delivery.
He called for continued community support for the facility and urged government to expand its infrastructure to meet the growing demand for services in the area.
