Luuka, Uganda: The In-charge of Kiyunga Health Centre IV in Luuka District has issued a stern warning to medical staff over alleged extortion of money from patients seeking services at the government facility.
Mukama Gideon, the facility’s in-charge, said he has received repeated complaints from community members claiming they are being charged illegal fees to access services that are meant to be free.
In a letter dated January 30, 2026, copied to the District Health Officer (DHO), Chief Accounts Officer, LCV Chairperson, Resident District Commissioner (RDC), District Police Commander (DPC) and the Health Unit Management Committee, Mukama reminded staff of previous resolutions to end the practice.
“Reference is made from previous meetings (staff meeting held on 10/06/2025 and Heads of Department meeting on 29/10/2025) where we discussed the same subject and agreed to stop this illegal practice with immediate effect,” the letter states in part.
Mukama noted that despite earlier discussions and resolutions, some staff have reportedly continued to demand money from patients.
“However, despite all the discussions and resolutions we have had about this matter, some of us have continued to engage in this illegal practice. This is not only against public standing orders but also affects accessibility and uptake of health services,” he wrote.
He warned that continued extortion undermines public trust and limits access to healthcare for vulnerable populations who depend on the facility.
The health centre boss cautioned that failure to comply with the directive would leave him with no option but to forward offending staff to higher authorities for disciplinary action.
Wider Concerns in Public Health Facilities
Extortion and illegal charging in some government health facilities remain a persistent concern across the country, often coupled with reports of negligence and drug theft.
In June 2024, State Minister for Health (General Duties) Hanifa Kawooya Bangirana ordered the immediate sacking of medical workers at Masaka General Hospital who were caught stealing drugs or extorting money from patients.
She issued the directive during the swearing-in of the hospital’s new board, emphasizing the Ministry of Health’s commitment to ensuring that medicines remain available in government facilities and that services are delivered without illegal charges.
Local leaders in Luuka have called for stricter monitoring and enforcement mechanisms to protect patients from exploitation and ensure accountability within public health institutions.
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