Ensuring access to safe, effective, and affordable essential medicines is not just a health essential but a fundamental human right. Yet, studies consistently reveal the challenges Africa faces in this regard, with financing constraints posing a significant obstacle to accessing essential medications.
In light of these challenges, Global Surgical Initiative Inc- Kyabirwa Surgical Center, in partnership with Americares, has undertaken an initiative to address the pressing need for essential drugs in Busoga. Serving as an outpatient surgical facility at Kyabirwa-Bujagali village, Kyabirwa Surgical Centre is known for the power of community-driven healthcare solutions.
On the 8th of February 2024, Kyabirwa Surgical Center as a member institution of Busoga Health Forum, invited several government facilities, and non-profit private institutions to receive donations of drugs. Spearheading this endeavor was Nasaga Susan, a pharmacist at Kyabirwa Surgical Center, who emphasized the importance of proper storage and ethical distribution practices to ensure that those in need receive the medications.
Anna Turumanya Kulumuna, Director of GSC- Kyabirwa Surgical Center, pointed out how the collaborative spirit drove the decision to share surplus medication with other health facilities. From Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, Iganga General Hospital, Hope and Healing Center, St. Francis Hospital – Buluba, St. James Orthopedic Hospital, and Bugono Health Center IV, and many other institutions are to benefit, and our goal is to ensure that essential medications reach those who cannot afford them, thereby catalyzing positive health outcomes across the region.
Moses Kyangwa, Executive Director of BHF, was grateful for the solidarity being exhibited among health workers in Busoga. He applauded the private facilities for their commitment to saving lives, he also reaffirmed Busoga Health Forum’s dedication to coordinating efforts aimed at improving health outcomes for all.
In a region grappling with medication stockouts, in the case of Iganga, a general hospital but serving to the level of a Regional Referral hospital, it’s disappointing to most of the patients who travel long distances only to find no drugs, the timely arrival of these drugs brings a sparkle of hope to patients in need. Misinde Patrick, a pharmacist at Iganga Hospital, asked Busoga Health Forum to ensure such initiatives are sustained to prevent the recurrence of drug shortages that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.
Dr. Loudel Steven, Medical Superintendent at St. Francis Hospital Buluba, expressed his appreciation for the increase in medical supplies, recognizing the impact they were to have on underserved communities.
The team also had a tour of the Kyabirwa Surgical Center, anticipation filled the air with the yet-to-be-launched simulation laboratory which is a big mark of the center’s commitment to advancing surgical care through innovation and skill development.
This surgical center was founded to improve a long-standing stereotype that much-needed surgery is expensive and only available to the rich. Many underprivileged communities have been kept away from surgical treatments due to lack of adequate resources and significant costs. This project aims to demonstrate that everyone who deserves surgical care can obtain it safely and affordably.
This article is written by Tatumwa Desmond Benjamin and sponsored by Busoga Health Forum
