Water Shortages at Ntara Health Centre IV Leave Patients and Caregivers Struggling

Some caregivers told Nile Post they are forced to buy a 20-litre jerrycan of water for Shs500 from nearby vendors or walk nearly a kilometre to fetch water from alternative sources.

Patients and caregivers at Ntara Health Centre IV in Kitagwenda District are grappling with persistent water shortages, forcing many to buy water or walk long distances as district authorities work on a long-term solution to improve supply.

KITAGWENDA — Patients and caregivers at Ntara Health Centre IV are facing growing hardship due to persistent water shortages, with many forced to buy water or walk long distances to access the essential resource.

Although the government health facility is connected to the Western Umbrella of Water and Sanitation system, residents say the water supply remains unreliable, affecting hygiene and sanitation for patients, caregivers and health workers.

Visitors to the facility are often greeted by several water storage tanks, creating the impression of a steady water supply. However, residents say the tanks are frequently empty because of intermittent supply.

Some caregivers told Nile Post they are forced to buy a 20-litre jerrycan of water for Shs500 from nearby vendors or walk nearly a kilometre to fetch water from alternative sources.

"We expected that a Health Centre IV would have a constant supply of clean water, but that is not the case," one caregiver said.

"We spend money buying water or walk long distances to fetch it. It becomes even more difficult when you are taking care of a seriously ill patient."

Another resident said the shortage has made it difficult to maintain proper hygiene at the health facility.

"Water is essential for bathing patients, washing utensils and maintaining cleanliness. Without it, both patients and caregivers are exposed to poor sanitary conditions," the resident said.

Health experts say inadequate access to clean water in health facilities increases the risk of infections and compromises the quality of healthcare services.

Kitagwenda District Health Officer Dr Irene Kahimakazi acknowledged the challenge and said the district has begun implementing measures to improve the situation.

"We are aware of the intermittent water supply at Ntara Health Centre IV despite its connection to the Western Umbrella Water system," she said.

"The district is currently establishing a large water storage tank that will ensure a constant supply of water whenever the main system experiences interruptions. Our goal is to guarantee reliable access to water for patients, caregivers and health workers."

Dr Kahimakazi said the district remains committed to improving healthcare delivery through investments in critical infrastructure, including a reliable water supply.