Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital, commonly known as Buhinga Hospital, has come under intense scrutiny following allegations of gross negligence leading to the death of a prominent cultural artist, Moses Kigambo Araali. The incident, which occurred on January 3, 2025, has sparked outrage among the public and prompted immediate action from the Ministry of Health.
Moses Kigambo Araali, a celebrated artist and cultural icon in the region, reportedly collapsed and was rushed to Buhinga Hospital. Disturbingly, reports indicate that he languished without medical attention for hours, leading to his untimely death. The incident has not only angered the public but also highlighted systemic issues within the facility, including allegations of corruption, extortion, and staff absenteeism.
In response to the public outcry, Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, took decisive action by interdicting Dr. Alex Adaku, the hospital’s director. Dr. Atwine described the state of affairs at Buhinga as “unfit for human beings,” emphasizing the need for urgent reforms to restore public trust in the healthcare system. Her no-nonsense approach to addressing the situation has been widely commended, with many viewing her actions as a necessary step toward accountability.
This is not the first time Dr. Atwine has taken a firm stance against inefficiencies in Uganda’s public health facilities. Known for her commitment to improving service delivery, she has previously tackled issues of absenteeism and substandard care in various hospitals. Her recent intervention at Buhinga underscores her resolve to ensure that health workers adhere to the highest standards of professionalism.
The case of Buhinga Hospital highlights deeper systemic challenges facing Uganda’s healthcare sector. Patients frequently report instances of neglect and extortion, with some alleging that they are forced to pay bribes to receive services that should be free. Such practices have eroded confidence in public health institutions and left vulnerable populations at risk.
Dr. Atwine’s actions are a reminder that accountability is crucial in the quest to improve healthcare delivery. While the interdiction of Dr. Adaku sends a strong message, it also underscores the need for structural reforms to address the root causes of inefficiencies in the health system.
As investigations continue, the public awaits further updates on the measures being implemented to prevent a recurrence of such tragedies. The government’s ability to restore confidence in the healthcare system will hinge on its commitment to addressing these pressing issues head-on.
