Kagadi Hospital staff quarters fire ignites renewed calls for rehabilitation of dilapidated structures

KAGADI - A devastating fire that gutted staff quarters at Kagadi General Hospital has reignited demands for urgent rehabilitation of crumbling infrastructure, following the loss of millions of shillings’ worth of property. 

The 11:30am, Sunday, September 14, 2025, blaze destroyed household items, mattresses and appliances, though no casualties were reported.

Hospital administrator Dr Simon Peter Tumusiime described the incident as a reminder of the deteriorating state of facilities built over five decades ago. 

“The staff quarters, constructed in 1968, are dilapidated, and this fire is the second such incident since 2021,” he said, emphasising the need for immediate action. “We suspect a short circuit caused the fire, but investigations are ongoing. We urgently appeal to the Government to renovate these unsafe structures.”

Kagadi District Police commander Keneth Akampulira echoed concerns, urging occupants to vacate the premises until a fire brigade report is finalised. 

“We suspect an electrical fault but cannot confirm the exact cause yet,” he said, urging the water ministry to ensure proper installation of water points in government buildings to mitigate such risks.

Residents and staff, who suffered minor injuries during the chaotic evacuation, blamed systemic neglect. 

“The Government has ignored our pleas for years,” said one affected worker, citing the hospital’s role as a regional hub serving patients from DR Congo, Lake Albert, and neighbouring districts. 

“Without safe housing for staff, how can we provide quality care?”

Despite the absence of a permanent fire brigade in Kagadi, local residents swiftly contained the flames using water and soil before reinforcements arrived hours later from Hoima district. 

Edgar Kwikiriza, a hospital health practitioner, praised their efforts but stressed deeper systemic issues. 

“My children escaped unharmed, but this could have been a tragedy,” he said. 

“The health ministry must prioritise Kagadi General Hospital in the next financial year. We need a referral hospital here. This facility is overstretched, serving areas beyond its capacity.”