Land Dispute Halts Upgrade of Buwama Health Centre III

The planned upgrade of Buwama Health Centre III to Level IV status remains in limbo due to an unresolved land ownership conflict, exposing critical gaps in healthcare services for the surrounding community. The facility currently operates on three acres of contested land belonging to the Buganda Kingdom, awaiting formal authorisation for expansion.

During a visit to the health centre, Joseph Sserwadda, chairperson of the management committee, explained the predicament: "We cannot proceed with construction without the Kabaka's official approval and land title." The stalemate has severely impacted service delivery, with staff reporting persistent shortages of essential drugs and a complete lack of ambulance services for emergency referrals.  

The maternity ward faces particularly dire conditions, forcing many expectant mothers to deliver at home or in makeshift arrangements. Medical personnel, speaking anonymously, described using outdated equipment and insufficient delivery kits. In response to the crisis, local philanthropist Brian Makondeere has stepped in to provide emergency maternal health supplies, though he acknowledges these are temporary measures.  

Several mothers who received donated delivery kits expressed appreciation but emphasised the need for permanent solutions. "These supplies help, but we deserve a fully equipped health centre," one beneficiary remarked.  

The standoff highlights broader challenges in Uganda's healthcare infrastructure development, where land disputes frequently delay critical upgrades. Community leaders are now appealing to both traditional and government authorities to prioritise resolving the impasse, warning that continued inaction jeopardises maternal and child health outcomes in the region.