Uganda: Soroti Health Workers Warned Against Using Official Motorbikes for Personal Errands

Health workers in Soroti City, Uganda, face stern warnings against using government-provided motorcycles for personal activities. City officials emphasized that these vehicles, donated by the Ministry of Health specifically for immunization programs, are intended to enhance outreach and service delivery to remote areas.

Joseph Mwesigwa, the deputy town clerk of Soroti City, stressed the importance of responsible use during the handover of the motorcycles. He explicitly cautioned health workers against using the bikes for tasks such as transporting produce from their gardens, picking up girlfriends, or neglecting timely servicing.

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Dont take them for ferrying maize from your gardens, picking girlfriends and please have them serviced on time

Noah Okiror, the Soroti City Health Officer, highlighted that the motorcycles are crucial for extending immunization services to the most isolated communities. He expressed hope that this initiative will significantly improve vaccination rates for preventable diseases like measles, yellow fever, and polio.

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Some of the diseases children suffer from are vaccine preventable like measles, yellow fever polio etc, so by getting this motorcycles we hope to improve and stage a serious fight against the vice

Steven Omoding, the Soroti City Assistant Resident Commissioner, echoed these sentiments, urging beneficiaries to use the motorcycles responsibly. He warned that any misuse would result in public naming and shaming. Omoding also noted the expectation of increased field activity from health workers and a subsequent reduction in immunizable diseases, emphasizing the need to preserve the valuable assets provided by the government.

Similar motorcycle donations were also made to Soroti and Kapelebyong districts. Emmanuel Opio, Communications Officer for Kapelebyong District, thanked the government for the support, stating the motorcycles will aid in mobilizing communities for vaccination campaigns. The warning comes amid a history of officials misusing government vehicles for personal gain.

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Yamaha engines are very good for motor boats, fishmongers love them so much and therefore be very careful with the safety of yours