The event, in collaboration with the Association of Surgeons of Uganda and Kampala International University Teaching Hospital, has taken place in Ishaka, Ankole region and was able to assist more than 700 life-changing surgeries. This no doubt will bring much-needed medical attention to Ugandans affected by different health issues, and thus give hope to the community for relief.
He was the Guest of Honour during the closing ceremony presided over by the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, and assured the Government of Uganda of its commitment to health. He promised full support for any future medical camps, noting that health had to be made more accessible to the people.
The medical conditions treated during the week included hernias, cataracts, orthopaedic problems, goitre, hydrocoele, fistulas, tumors, urologic, and gynaecologic concerns. Beneficiaries were mainly over 500 citizens drawn from five districts of this region. Basic services were being offered by the work dedication of a health professional team.
One such story of emotion came from Sam Ntumwa, who regained his eyesight through successful cataract surgery and was extremely grateful. “Thank you, ASOU and KIUTH!” he said, poignantly reflecting on how such a camp can affect the life of an individual.
KIUTH has pledged to continue the care started at the camp and promised to provide more surgeries to the patients who registered for treatment. As Dr. Omar Umi Bunu, CEO of KIUH, put it, “We will finish the work and ensure that all are attended to accordingly.”
The President of ASOU, Dr. Moses Galukande, thanked the partners for the good collaboration and medical teams: “This effort has impacted the changing of many lives, and we look forward to continuing this noble work.”
The success of the National Free Surgical Week epitomizes what partnership looks like in an attempt to ensure increased access to healthcare and quality in Uganda. With the plans for the next medical camp in West Nile, the initiative promised to extend hope and healing to another community in dire need.
Key Statistics from the Camp Include:
- Over 700 surgeries performed
- Over 500 benefited
- Over 200 medical professionals involved
- 5 districts served
This forms a very important milestone in the collaboration of ASOU, KIUTH, Ministry of Health, and the Parliament of Uganda—a sure sign that community-oriented health programs change lives.
