Presided over the International Nurses Day celebrations at Boma Grounds in Kitgum Municipality, under the theme: "Nurses: A voice to lead. Health is a human right".
I thank the nurses for mounting the guard of honour that ushered me here. I was pleasantly surprised. Usually it is the soldiers who do that. Thank you.
I thank the nurses for being good Christians and rejecting calls to join strikes of those fighting for salary increments.
I have insisted that scientists, including nurses, must have their salaries enhanced in the next budget. This will be done gradually until we match regional standards.
We have devoted a significant portion of government revenue to infrastructure development, that is why we are handling the issue of salary gradually.
The complaint by nurses regarding workman compensation is valid and I will study it. But you are entitled to it. There should be no debate.
I am happy to learn that nurses have formed a SACCO. This will help you earn extra income, and I am going to support it. I have also directed my office to address the issue of the land title for your office at Mulago.
The government will address the issue of housing for nurses because I support the idea that you should reside near your work places. We shall build houses close to hospitals.
On the issue of equipping hospitals with necessary equipment, the government is going to enter into a partnership with General Electric, an American company that we are dealing with in the oil sector. It also manufactures medical equipment and will supply these at a lower cost.
I congratulate the nurses on this day. I am also happy to note that the nurses gathered in Kitgum are from all corners of the country. This gives you the opportunity to see the developments happening in your country. I am sure you have enjoyed driving on the smooth roads on your way to Kitgum
