Soroti City Allocates Shs49m for Mortuary Renovation

Soroti City Council has set aside Shs 49 million to begin the much-needed rehabilitation of the city’s mortuary. The facility, opened in 2004, has not seen significant repairs since its construction and is now in a dilapidated state.

The mortuary, located in Nakatunya Ward, currently has a capacity for 30 bodies but suffers from critical equipment shortages, including functional freezers. Additionally, its structures are cracked, the roof is deteriorating, and the fence has been damaged, allowing animals to roam the grounds.

City authorities have officially handed over the project to the City Engineer, Mr. Samuel Oranit, with repair works expected to last six months. The initial phase of the renovation will focus on repairing doors and windows.

Mr. Oranit noted that the project’s timeline is constrained by the current financial year, with completion anticipated within the first quarter. Deputy Resident City Commissioner, Mr. James Small Chemutai, highlighted that the repairs are crucial for enhancing security and preventing the improper disposal of bodies within the mortuary compound. He also acknowledged the long-standing issue of unpleasant odors from unclaimed bodies.

Dr. Alfred Anyonga, the Soroti City Health Officer, urged the public to stop grazing animals on the mortuary premises, citing concerns about sanitation and the facility’s image. He stressed the need for modern cold storage and increased space to adequately serve the growing population and rising accident cases.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/soroti-city-earmarks-shs49m-to-rehabilitate-22-year-old-mortuary-5458226