EMERGENCY, an international humanitarian organization that provides free, high-quality care to people affected by war and poverty in collaboration with Uganda’s Ministry of Health, has launched Pediatric Laparoscopy Surgery at the Children’s Surgical Hospital in Entebbe.
Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive technique that is commonly used for many kinds of abdominal and pelvic conditions.
The Children’s Surgical Hospital has been equipped with the latest laparoscopic instruments, which will offer numerous advantages for children, including reduced pain, shorter recovery time, and minimal scarring.
While speaking at the launch on November 26, 2024, Minister of Health Jane Ruth Aceng said this development brings hope to countless children in Uganda and the health sector at large.
“This institution is a source of hope for our children and stands as a model of healthcare excellence across Africa.” Minister Aceng said
Aceng noted that since Uganda long started conducting laparoscopic surgeries in adults, this service had not yet been extended to children.
The president of EMERGENCY, Ross Miccio revealed that the new laparoscopic instrument opens new doors for children, both for treatment and training specialists.
“Since early November, training programs are already ongoing to equip healthcare professionals with the necessary skills to perform complex laparoscopic procedures, with 12 laparoscopies already performed at the Children’s Surgical Hospital, demonstrating the immediate impact,” Miccio stated.
She emphasized their need to take a crucial step towards creating a resilient healthcare system in Uganda where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
In August 2022, the Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Health, Dr. Diana Atwiine, called for a task force to convene and develop a plan to scale up access to safe, affordable, and timely surgery for children.
On the other hand, a report from the ministry revealed that about 74.3% of Uganda’s population resides in rural settings where significant poverty can limit their access to services, including Paediatric Laparoscopy surgical care.
