The new Members of the Health Service Commission
Justice Dr Emmanuel Baguma, Deputy Head of the Civil Division, represented the Chief Justice at the swearing-in ceremony of seven newly appointed members of the Health Service Commission. The ceremony took place at the Court of Appeal Conference Hall.
Justice Baguma congratulated the new members upon their appointment by His Excellency the President, emphasizing that their selection was a testament to the confidence placed in them. He expressed optimism that with a fully constituted Commission, critical challenges within the health sector would be addressed effectively.
Justice Baguma further noted that the appointment of the Commission members fulfills Article 169 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda and Section 5 of the Health Service Commission Act, 2001. He urged them to strictly adhere to established government policies on human resource management and uphold universally accepted principles such as natural justice, equal employment opportunity, and merit-based recruitment.
He emphasized that an efficient and effective Health Service Commission relies on commitment and teamwork among stakeholders. "Hospitals need qualified and competent staff, improved terms and conditions of service, strict discipline, and continuous staff training-all of which can be achieved through collective effort," he stated. "Through teamwork, the Commission will fulfill its mandate of ensuring an adequate and competent health workforce for Uganda. A nation's prosperity depends on a healthy and productive population."
He concluded by wishing the new members a successful tenure and encouraging them to contribute to the improvement of health service delivery across the country.
Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, the Minister of Health, congratulated the new members, noting that their appointment had been eagerly awaited. She acknowledged the pressing challenges in the health sector, particularly the issue of vacancies versus the limited wage bill. She urged the Commission to recruit passionate, committed, and patriotic individuals-not merely to fill positions but to enhance service delivery.
The Minister also called for integrity in recruitment, cautioning against corruption, nepotism, and favoritism. "It is disheartening to learn that 85% of job placements in various sectors involve corruption. We must check ourselves and do the right thing," she said. "Health workers must be recruited on merit-without bias, emotions, or bribes."
She further emphasized the need for efficiency in the Commission's work and thanked the President for his timely appointment of the new members. She urged them to support District Service Commissions and avoid compromising standards by recruiting friends and relatives. "Remember, you are dealing with the lives of Ugandans. Perform your duties diligently, with the fear of God and love for the people."
She also commended the outgoing Commission for its dedication and encouraged them to continue offering guidance. "May the Lord guide you and lead you along the path of righteousness, "she concluded.
Ms. Betty Mutesa, representing the Head of Public Service and Secretary to Cabinet, congratulated the newly sworn-in members on their achievement. She underscored the critical role of the Health Service Commission in ensuring that only qualified health professionals are recruited to deliver quality care.
She highlighted the increasing number of trained health workers and the high demand for employment against limited vacancies, stressing that merit must be the guiding principle in all recruitment decisions. "The Commission must remain steadfast in upholding excellence and resisting any compromises that could undermine service quality. Your leadership, integrity, and dedication to public service will be the foundation for building a healthier nation-an essential pillar of national development."
Ms. Kerry Lamaro, Secretary of the Health Service Commission, expressed gratitude to the Chief Justice and Chief Registrar for their swift response in facilitating the ceremony. She welcomed the new members, reminding them of their vital role in recruitment, promotion, discipline, and reviewing the terms and conditions of service for healthcare professionals. "Your responsibilities are profound and far-reaching, directly impacting the quality of healthcare received by every Ugandan," she said.
She urged them to see themselves as agents of change, working collaboratively with stakeholders to address challenges in the sector. "As you take your oath today, remember that you are not merely assuming positions of authority-you are becoming stewards of the health and well-being of our nation," she emphasized. She assured them of the Commission staff’s full support in executing their mandate effectively.
On behalf of the newly appointed members, Dr. Henry Gatyanga Mwebesa expressed gratitude to God and the President for their appointment. He also acknowledged the Ministry of Health's senior leadership for nominating them with confidence.
He assured stakeholders that the new Commission had familiarized itself with its mandate, rules, and responsibilities and pledged to execute them diligently, with integrity and without bias. "We are committed to fulfilling our duties in a timely and efficient manner, ensuring transparency and accountability in all our decisions."
Dr. Mwebesa also noted that, in line with a recent presidential directive, the Commission is collaborating with the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to finalize specific standing orders for health workers under the Health Service Commission Act, 2001.
He thanked the outgoing Commission for its dedicated service and assured them that their guidance and experience would continue to be valued. He further called upon the government to strengthen mechanisms for checks and balances to ensure accountability within the health sector.
The newly sworn-in members of the Health Service Commission are: Dr. Henry Gatyanga Mwebesa(Chairperson),Ms. Christine Kakuru Kyomuhangi (Deputy Chairperson), Dr. Nathan Warid Onyachi, Dr. Mary Namubiru, Mr. Aisu Peter Steven, Ms. Janet Apayi Okumu, and Mr. Obua Thomas Ocwa as members.
The ceremony was attended by the Hon. Ministers of State for Health (General Duties) and Primary Care, the Chairpersons of the Education and Public Service Commissions, Permanent Secretaries from various government ministries, senior officials, and the families and friends of the appointees.
HW Timothy Lumunye, Acting Chief Magistrate of Buganda Road Chief Magistrates' Court (sitting at LDC Court), moderated the ceremony.
Posted 5th, March 2025
