Over 2500 surgeries are expected to be performed at no cost by a team of 280 surgeons from the Association of Surgeons of Uganda (ASOU) and other health specialists from the Ministry of Health in the Ankole Subregion.

The surgeries will happen from September 22nd to 28th, 2024, in the districts of Mbarara, Rwampara, Ntugumu, Insigiro, Buhweju, Ibanda, Kiruhura, Mitooma, Bushenyi, Sheema, and Rubirizi.

While flagging off the team from the Ministry of Health headquarters, Dr. Diana Atwine, the PS at the ministry expressed gratitude for the sacrifice and selflessness they show in their profession.

“This kind of sacrifice doesn’t go unnoticed. We may not be able to pay, but we know there is someone above us who recognizes the efforts you are making. I know that you are bringing blessings to your family and children. Every life you save out there, you compile fruits and blessings,” she said.

Dr. Atwiine stated in an earlier communication that some of the diseases to be treated at the camps will include goitre, eye defects, prostate cancer, gall bladder with stones, and hernia.

She pledged support from the Ministry of Health and National Medical Stores to the success of the camp and thanked members of parliament who have promised to support the camp in their respective districts.

‘’We don’t have sponsors. It is the doctors who have given their time for free. I am happy to note that some Members of Parliament from those regions promised to facilitate the doctors with accommodation and feeding during the time. 

“I thank them for their support. As Ministry of Health and National Medical Stores, we shall support transportation and medical supplies’,” she noted.

These surgery camps are organised once a year by the Association of Surgeons of Uganda, and last year they were in the Lango region.