NEW STAFF HOUSES BOOST MATERNAL HEALTH SERVICES IN ASURET

By Abraham Ekwaru, Communication Officer Soroti

Soroti District leaders have expressed optimism that maternal and child health services at Asuret Health Centre III will improve following the handover of newly constructed staff houses.

The two blocks, each comprising two self-contained units, were constructed by the UPDF Engineering Brigade at a cost of Shs416 million in the previous financial year.

The houses were officially handed over on Friday during a ceremony presided over by the Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Soroti, Mr Okia Emmanuel.

The project is expected to address the long-standing challenge of inadequate accommodation for health workers, which has affected service delivery, particularly during night emergencies.

Speaking at the event, Mr Okia said government remains committed to strengthening health infrastructure to improve access to quality services.

“Providing accommodation within the health facility is intended to improve efficiency and ensure health workers respond promptly to emergencies,” he said.

He urged health workers to serve the community diligently, especially mothers and children who depend on timely medical attention.

Soroti District Chairperson, Mr Edoru Simon Peter Ekuu, commended government for investing in rural health infrastructure, noting that lack of staff accommodation has been a major bottleneck in service delivery.

“Inadequate housing has affected staff morale and retention in rural facilities. This project will improve working conditions and service delivery,” Mr Edoru said.

He challenged health workers to reciprocate government’s support by offering improved services to the community.

The District Health Officer, Dr Charles Okhadi, described the staff houses as a significant step towards addressing accommodation gaps in the district’s health sector.

He said having health workers reside within the facility will strengthen supervision, improve emergency response and reduce absenteeism.

Asuret Health Centre III serves a large rural population in Soroti District, including expectant mothers and children who often require urgent medical attention.

Mr Alimu Thomas the LC three Chairperson, expressed hope that the new housing units will translate into improved maternal health outcomes and increased community confidence in public health services.

Ends