By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu
MBARARA
Maryhill Hilltop turned into a beacon of hope this week as thousands of residents from Mbarara and surrounding districts lined up for specialized medical care during a high-impact health camp organized by the Archdiocese of Mbarara Development Associationof (AMDA).
The medical camp officially opened by His Grace Archbishop Lambert Beinomugisha, drew overwhelming crowds seeking treatment for conditions ranging from cardiology and cancer to dental and pediatric care services led by Holy Innocents Children’s Hospital often among others.
Archbishop Beinomugisha, joined by Dr. Rosemary Byanyima Executive Director of Mulago National Referral Hospital, emphasized the spiritual and humanitarian significance of the initiative, aligning it with this year’s theme announced by Pope Francis: “Pilgrimages of Hope.” He praised AMDA’s commitment to reaching underserved parishes like Mbarara and Kibona, urging families to remember their elderly and ensure they receive specialized care.
Hon. Mwijukye Francis, a member of AMDA, acknowledged the bittersweet reality of the camp’s success. “People come with deep hopes of healing, but our capacity is limited,” he said. He criticized the government’s focus on building health centers without equipping them with essential medicines and qualified personnel. “A patient who walks 10 kilometers and receives full medical attention is better off than one living next to an empty hospital,” he added.
Chris Gumisiriza, AMDA Chairperson, revealed that over 500 health workers were mobilized to serve an estimated 10,000 patients. He noted that the team spent UGX 206 million on drugs and medical sundries, with National Medical Stores recognized as the major sponsor.
Departments at the camp included cardiology, dental, cancer, TB, ENT, pediatrics, laboratory services, and pharmacy offering a rare lifeline to communities long deprived of comprehensive healthcare.
As the camp continues, the message is clear: while temporary interventions bring relief, the long-term solution lies in fully equipping district health facilities to serve the people with dignity and efficiency.
The medical camp marked day two of the caravan that started on 29th September, ending on 31st with High Mass that will be celebrated by His Grace Lambert Beinomugisha, the Mbarara Archbishop.
