Health 29 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Yumbe Hospital Faces Severe Staffing Shortage Serving Over 2 Million People
Yumbe Regional Referral Hospital is operating at just 18.8% of required staffing levels, overburdening its 235 workers who serve 2.3 million people from multiple Ugandan districts and neighboring countries. Officials cite delayed recruitment and funding issues, but the government plans Shs6 billion for new hires next year. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/yumbe-hospital-struggles-to-serve-2-million-people-5440290
Yumbe Regional Referral Hospital is grappling with critical staffing shortages, serving a vast population of 2.3 million across Yumbe, Adjumani, Moyo, Obongi, and Koboko districts. Patients also arrive from South Sudan and DR Congo, intensifying the pressure on the facility.
Hospital management reports operating at only 18.8% staffing capacity, with 235 employees against a needed 1,246. This forces staff to work extended hours, particularly in maternity, outpatient, laboratory, and emergency departments.
Deputy Director Dr. Nasur Mubarak highlighted the human resource crisis due to reduced funding and slow government recruitment. “Our staff are doing their best under challenging conditions, but more personnel are urgently needed,” he stated.
District health authorities, including Moyo DHO Dr. Franklin Idi, blame delayed processes and population growth. Layoffs in refugee camps have further strained lower facilities, pushing more patients to Yumbe.
Officials urge wage enhancements and partner support. However, hope emerges as the government allocates Shs6 billion for recruitment in the next financial year, per Ministry of Health’s Dr. Michael Mwanga.
Yumbe Deputy Resident Commissioner Mathew Vuyaya emphasized the need for full staffing given the cross-border demand.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)