Rotary medical camp offers timely healthcare services to Kyengera residents

Updated by Faith Barbara N Ruhinda at 1257 EAT on Thursday 5 November 2026

A total of 321 patients received free medical services during a medical camp organised by the Rotary Club of Kampala Central at Mother of Mercy Hospital in Kyengera recently.

The camp proved to be a timely intervention for the community, with patients accessing a range of medical services and free medication.

According to Sister Maria Namuwulya, head of Mother of Mercy Hospital, the initial target was to provide medical services to at least 400 people.

Although attendance fell short of the target by about 80 people, with some patients arriving after the scheduled time, the camp was considered a success.

Of the 321 patients examined by various medical specialists, including dentists, gynaecologists, opticians, general practitioners and laboratory technicians, 192 visited the hospital pharmacy to receive free medication.

The high demand for free medicine highlighted the financial challenges many people face in accessing healthcare, with some unable to seek treatment or purchase prescribed drugs because of the cost.

The Rotary Club of Kampala Central provided medication to patients who needed it, helping to address one of the major barriers to accessing healthcare.

“Since the camp was held at the end of October, we have been receiving feedback from many of the patients who were attended to on the day. They have commended the services they received courtesy of the Rotary Club of Kampala Central,” Namuwulya said.

“Most of them said they had been ill for some time because they could not afford the treatment they needed. However, after receiving the required medication, they are now recovering well,” she added.

The cost of healthcare in Uganda remains a significant burden for many households, with even routine medical treatment proving difficult to afford for ordinary citizens.

As the popular saying goes, one is often just a medical bill away from poverty. The rising cost of healthcare continues to put pressure on families already struggling with the high cost of living.

For instance, treating malaria in Uganda can cost at least Shs50,000 ($12), particularly in cases where injectable medication is required. For many households, this is a substantial expense, especially when combined with other essential household bills.

Duncan Aturinda, president of the Rotary Club of Kampala Central, said the club, guided by its motto of Service Above Self, had prioritised initiatives aimed at improving the health and well-being of Ugandans.

“We realise that the economic growth of any country depends on how healthy its population is. That is why we are so passionate about public health. Of course, we also recognise that for a community to be healthy and productive, its environment must be healthy as well.

“It is against that background that we continue to work and mobilise resources towards the conservation of Lake Victoria, the River Nile and our forests,” Aturinda said.

-Observer

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