Over 400 Adjumani residents benefit from free surgical camp

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ADJUMANI - More than 400 residents from Adjumani and neighbouring districts have accessed life-changing surgical care through a free camp launched on September 20, 2025, at Adjumani General Hospital and Mungula Health Centre IV.

Organised by the health ministry in collaboration with the Association of Surgeons of Uganda, Rotary Club Uganda, local leaders and non-governmental organisations, the initiative aims to address critical gaps in surgical access across West Nile.

Adjumani General Hospital medical superintendent, Dr Michael Ambaku, said the medical camp was timely.

“The overwhelming turnout shows how dire unmet surgical needs are in our communities. We’ve assembled 20 specialists here and 13 at Mungula, but our initial target of 300 patients was quickly surpassed. Many have been suffering silently at home,” he said.

He appealed for patience as logistical constraints reduced the camp’s duration to four days, though efforts continue to secure more resources.

Services provided include orthopaedic surgery, eye surgeries, hernia repairs and goitre removal.

Rotary Club President Brenda Tideru emphasised the partnership’s commitment.

“We’ll ensure everyone receives care, and complex cases will be referred to advanced hospitals,” she said.

Adjumani’s LC5 Chairperson Anyama Ben praised the initiative, saying, “This is the first major surgical camp in over 15 years—saving locals from costly trips to Kampala. I’m deeply grateful these services are finally free.”

Terezina Anna, a 64-year-old from Ciforo sub-county, said: “My eyes have pained for years, but I couldn’t afford private care. This free surgery is a miracle.”

The camp, themed: Increasing Access to Quality Surgical Care and Reducing the Burden of Surgical Disease, runs through September 24. Despite financial hurdles, organisers remain determined to transform lives while advocating for sustained support to tackle West Nile’s healthcare challenges.