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Kapchorwa, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Ugandan long-distance runner Joshua Cheptegei has urged the government to enhance healthcare services and infrastructure in the Sebei sub-region as a token of appreciation for the significant contributions of athletics to the country.
Sebei sub-region comprises three districts: Bukwo, Kween, and Kapchorwa, the latter being the mother district. In an exclusive interview with Uganda Radio Network, the reigning 10,000-meter Olympic champion expressed concern that while the government has made substantial developments in various regions of Uganda in recognition of their achievements, Sebei should receive special attention in the area of healthcare.
Cheptegei emphasized that while the construction of a stadium is important, prioritizing healthcare is crucial for both the success of sports and the well-being of the community. “As the saying goes, ‘Health is Wealth.’ If we don’t give it priority, we will continue losing people and even athletes who are great ambassadors of Uganda on the global stage,” Cheptegei stated.
He called on Sebei Members of Parliament and district leadership to work together and advocate for improved healthcare services in the region. Jacob Araptany, an athlete and resident of Kaproron Town Council in Kween district, echoed Cheptegei’s concerns, noting that several lives have been lost due to a lack of experienced doctors capable of performing critical operations. “There was a time we lost a fellow athlete who was stabbed by thugs. He bled out because there was no facility to stop the bleeding, and Kapchorwa is quite a distance away,” Araptany said.
He urged local leaders to support Cheptegei’s appeal and to petition the Ministry of Health to elevate existing healthcare facilities to district hospital status, which would significantly improve healthcare services.
Everlyn Chemutai Kubarika, the Chairperson of Kapchorwa District, commended Cheptegei’s efforts in reminding the government and the Ministry of Health about the region’s healthcare needs. She mentioned that they have approached the ministry regarding the upgrade of healthcare facilities and received a positive response, though progress has been slow.
A health worker at Kapchorwa Hospital, who spoke on condition of anonymity, highlighted the challenges faced by the facility, including inadequate drug supplies. “In many cases, we prescribe medication, but patients have to purchase it from nearby clinics, which is costly and unaffordable for many, leaving their treatment incomplete,” the worker explained.
They added that upgrading the facility would ensure adequate funding, increased staffing, and resources to provide proper healthcare. Kapchorwa Hospital is currently the only health facility in the region capable of handling referral cases, while Kween and Bukwo districts are still operating with Health Center IV status facilities, such as Kaproron Health Center IV and Bukwo Health Center IV.
Patients seeking healthcare services often travel from as far as Kenya and the neighboring Karamoja districts.
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