Three major hospitals in Uganda, including China Uganda Friendship Hospital Naguru, Entebbe Regional Referral Hospital, and Hoima Regional Referral Hospital, have been left without water supply.
The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) decided to disconnect the water over unpaid dues on June 5, jeopardizing the lives of millions of Ugandans. This abrupt and indiscriminate suspension of water services is placing an immense burden on an already overwhelmed healthcare system.
According to a disconnection order for Entebbe Hospital, the medical facility owes NWSC a staggering amount of 488,062,955 million shillings. Dr. Silver Mugisha, the Managing Director of NWSC, recently had his contract renewed for five years.
The decision to cut off the water supply to the hospitals came after a letter was sent to the Ministry of Finance, warning of the impending action. Finance Permanent Secretary Ramathan Ggoobi acknowledged the letter on June 1 and assured that the government would settle the outstanding debts. He pleaded with NWSC to reconnect the hospitals to the water grid in the meantime, but as of now, no action has been taken. This situation has far-reaching consequences, affecting not only major hospitals but also smaller healthcare centers and clinics, leaving vulnerable communities without access to critical medical services.
The absence of clean water hinders healthcare professionals from maintaining basic hygiene standards, sterilizing medical equipment, and ensuring proper sanitation. This significantly increases the risk of infections and further health complications. The inability to deliver adequate medical care due to water shortages puts patients in great danger and undermines the tireless efforts of healthcare workers who are striving to save lives.