WAKISO
By Johannah Nantongo
The Buganda Kingdom Minister for Social Services, Cotilda Nakatte, has called on parents to guide their children toward studying science-related subjects in order to reduce Uganda’s reliance on foreign medical specialists.
Speaking at the launch of a medical outreach camp in Wakiso District on Monday, Nakatte welcomed a team of doctors from Canada who are offering free treatment to local residents. While appreciating their support, she emphasized the need for Uganda to build its own pool of health professionals.
Nakatte made the remarks at the opening ceremony of the health camp organized by St. Joseph Hospital under the leadership of its director, Nicholas Muggaga. She described the initiative as an example of cross-border community service that directly benefits ordinary people.
She also encouraged Ugandans to engage in voluntary community work within their neighborhoods without waiting for direction from political or cultural leaders.
The minister praised Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II for facilitating the visit of the Canadian team, noting that specialized procedures such as plastic and reconstructive surgery are costly and often beyond the reach of many Ugandans. She added that the Buganda Kingdom has embarked on a program to establish more health centers to improve access to quality medical care.
In addition, Nakatte advised families to maintain proper nutrition and ensure children receive timely immunization to prevent avoidable health complications. She also highlighted the growing challenge of drug abuse among young people, describing it as a serious concern the kingdom is actively addressing.
St. Joseph Hospital Director Nicholas Muggaga explained that the visiting surgeons are focusing on treating patients with severe scars and congenital conditions such as cleft lips. He noted that such specialized services are limited in Uganda and often unaffordable, leaving many patients to live with these conditions for years
Muggaga said the medical camp began on February 1, 2026, and is scheduled to run until February 7, 2026.
The leader of the Canadian team, Kimit Rai, revealed that more than 100 patients had already been treated. He said the seven-day camp is staffed by a team of 25 highly skilled surgical specialists and expressed optimism that many more patients would benefit before the program concludes.