In a shocking revelation, two public officers in Kitagwenda District are facing suspension over allegations of stealing and selling government medical supplies, a scandal that has sent ripples through the community.
The accused are Ronald Mukamasimwe, an assistant inventory management officer at Ntara Health Centre IV, and Julius Businge, a health information assistant at Mahyoro Health Centre III. Both are alleged to have sold a consignment of medical supplies, including Paracetamol tablets, Cotrimoxazole capsules, and gloves marked “Government of Uganda – Not for Sale.” These items were intercepted by police at Kyendangara Trading Centre in Mahyoro Town Council, being transported by a boda-boda rider.
Dr. Warren Naamara, executive director of the State House Health Monitoring Unit (HMU), disclosed that the unit’s investigation revealed a blatant violation of the Anti-Corruption Act, 2009. The HMU has directed the Kitagwenda Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to take disciplinary action against the officers in accordance with the Public Service Standing Orders.
Under the 2021 revised Standing Orders, public officers under investigation must be interdicted for at least six months, receiving half their salary during that period. Mukamasimwe, who was promoted to Procurement Officer in June 2024 but retained his former role as stores manager, is now implicated in this scandal. Businge, meanwhile, has a history of similar allegations; earlier this year, he was arrested for drug theft but was later released on bond.
The stolen medical supplies were intended for vulnerable communities, underscoring the seriousness of the alleged misconduct. The theft not only violates legal provisions but also deprives citizens of access to essential healthcare services. Local authorities are under growing pressure to ensure justice is served and to implement stronger oversight mechanisms to prevent such incidents in the future. The Kitagwenda CAO is expected to expedite the disciplinary process in compliance with the HMU’s directives.
This case highlights the pressing need for increased transparency and accountability in public service, particularly within the health sector, where corruption directly impacts public well-being.
