Kwania district grapples with critical staffing shortage

10 September 2026, 5:32 pm

By Baker Okello

Kwania District Local Government is facing a critical shortage of staff, largely attributed to restrictions on the public service wage bill imposed by the central government.

Speaking to our reporter, Kwania District LC5 Chairperson George K.K. Akacha said the district has several positions approved and provided for in its structure, but lacks the financial resources required to recruit and fill the vacant posts.

Akacha said district leaders are engaging the Ministry of Finance to secure additional funding to address the staffing crisis and facilitate the recruitment of personnel in critical sectors.

He expressed concern over the severe shortage of midwives in health facilities across the district, noting that the few available midwives are working long and demanding shifts to serve communities, particularly in newly upgraded maternal health wards that remain severely understaffed.

Akacha added that the District Service Commission is currently prioritising the recruitment of 20 enrolled nurses and 20 enrolled midwives. The commission is also working to formalise key positions currently being held in an acting capacity, including the District Health Officer, District Engineer, District Education Officer and District Planner, among others.

The district leadership has committed to prioritising available wage bill resources for the most critical staffing needs, particularly in health and other essential service delivery areas, as it continues negotiations with the central government for additional funding.