Masaka City Grapples with Sanitation Crisis as Poverty-Related Diseases Surge

Masaka, Uganda – Health officials in Masaka City are sounding the alarm over a worsening outbreak of poverty-linked illnesses, with poor sanitation conditions in rapidly urbanising areas creating a public health emergency.  

Dr. Patrick Kasendwa, Masaka City Health Officer, revealed disturbing findings from recent surveys:  
"Over 60% of diseases in our clinics stem from poor hygiene, disproportionately affecting children under five and the elderly." The physician noted a dangerous trend of families neglecting basic hygiene due to inadequate home sanitation facilities.  

Masaka’s rapid urbanisation is causing a crisis due to inadequate infrastructure.  45% of new buildings lack toilets, 30% share overcrowded pit latrines, and open defecation continues in peri-urban areas.  

Nyendo-Mukungwe Division Mayor Naku Musana expressed frustration: "Despite our warnings, property developers prioritize profits over sanitation. Many new structures violate health regulations but remain occupied."  

Village Health Teams Overwhelmed  
Community health workers like Julius Lutankome from Bulando report unprecedented challenges:  
"We're seeing typhoid, dysentery, and worm infestations spread through contaminated groundwater. The stench from overflowing waste attracts disease-carrying pests."  

The mayor acknowledged financial constraints: government sanitation funding covers less than 20% of needs, and when funds run out by mid-year, waste piles up on streets for months.  

Families spend 30% of their income on preventable illnesses, lack clean water, and face eviction threats. Authorities are implementing emergency mobile clinics, community hygiene education, and cracking down on non-compliant developers.4) Temporary waste collection points  

Long-term solutions include sanitation bylaw revisions, public-private partnerships, slum upgrading, and increased health budgets.