Amolatar | During a site inspection at Etam Health Centre IV on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, the UPDF engineering brigade came under intense scrutiny over significant delays in construction and renovation works.
Acting district engineer Edward Orech revealed that the project was handed over to the UPDF engineering brigade in June 2023 with an expected completion timeline of six months.
Eng Orech also confirmed that the district had transferred a total of shs619 million to the brigade’s account for activities including the construction of a theatre, rehabilitation of the Outpatient Department block, and landscaping.
However, conflicting financial figures emerged when Lt. Denis Atukunde, representing the UPDF brigade, reported an expenditure of shs768 million for the same project.
This discrepancy raised concerns among the officials, including the District Internal Security Officer (DISO) and the Resident District Commissioner (RDC).
Both also expressed frustration about the extended project timeline, which has now stretched close to three years without completion.
Amolatar DISO highlighted the inconsistency between the Ministry of Defence’s reported budget of shs619 million and the UPDF brigade’s higher claim of shs768 million, signalling possible mismanagement or accounting irregularities.
Meanwhile, RDC of Amolatar Okello Francis Rwotlonyo openly criticised the Chief Administrative Officer’s office, the district engineer, and the district health officer for providing insufficient information about the stalled project and its financial handling.
Emphasising the ample government funding allocated for the Etam Health IV renovation, RDC Rwotlonyo urged the UPDF brigade to clarify the reasons behind the prolonged delays.
He warned that failure to provide a satisfactory explanation could lead to an immediate halt in construction activities.
Additionally, he demanded that the district administration improve its communication with his office regarding project updates.
The management at Etam HCIV reported critical gaps unrelated to construction progress, including the absence of wards, doctors’ residences, nurses’ quarters, and adequate staffing to operate the new theatre once completed.
Given the gravity of these issues, the inspection team agreed to revisit the site on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, to reassess progress and demand proper accountability.
The ongoing challenges at Etam Health IV highlight the urgent need for transparent financial management, efficient project execution, and improved coordination between the UPDF engineering brigade and district authorities.
The above will ensure that vital healthcare infrastructure is delivered to serve the community effectively.
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