By Haron Okwir
Otuke, Uganda | Orum Health Centre IV in Otuke District has received a portable digital X-ray machine from the Ministry of Health a major milestone aimed at improving access to diagnostic services for both host and refugee communities in the area.
The machine was officially delivered on Thursday, 5th June 2025, as part of a national rollout of only 15 such units across Uganda.
Otuke and Amolatar are the only two districts in the Lango Sub-region selected to benefit from this important health investment.
For years, patients in Otuke needing X-ray services have had to travel to neighboring districts such as Lira, Alebtong, and Gulu often at great financial cost.
With the arrival of this digital X-ray machine, over 200,000 residents will now have easier access to essential imaging services.
According to Assistant District Health Officer, Sister Semmy Achiro, who represented Otuke District at the national launch in Kampala on 15th May, the machine will significantly reduce the travel burden for patients in remote areas like Ogwete, Barkeo, and Barjobi.
She noted that the equipment is expected to reduce the cost of transport for people in distant areas and described it as an important tool that brings essential services closer to underserved communities.
Otuke Town Council LCIII Chairperson, Geoffrey Ario Omach, commended the technical team at Orum HCIV, saying their hard work contributed to the facility being chosen for the donation.
He emphasized that the new machine will enhance healthcare access, speed, and efficiency, particularly in resource-limited settings, and that this was a major gain for the people of Otuke and surrounding districts.
Deputy Resident District Commissioner, Francis Okwameri, urged residents to make the best use of the services at Orum HCIV, including the newly installed machine.
He stated that the equipment is meant to serve the people of Otuke District and called on the community to take full advantage of the opportunity.
Okwameri further praised the staff of Orum HCIV for their outstanding performance, noting that the facility had emerged as one of the best in the Lango Sub-region.
Officials from the Ministry of Health reiterated the critical role digital X-ray machines play in modern healthcare, especially in refugee-hosting districts.
They explained that such technology ensures timely diagnosis, effective treatment, and equitable access to health services.
It also helps reduce the need for patient transfers to major hospitals, saving time and resources, particularly in rural or emergency settings.
The handover event was attended by the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), local government stakeholders, health workers, and members of the public.
