Neither the scorching sun nor the vast distances could dampen the passion to serve. In a profound display of dedication to the underserved, the Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) Department of Surgery, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and a consortium of international and national health organizations, conducted a 7-Day Paediatric Surgical Camp.
This initiative channels specialized medical expertise directly to the children of the Karamoja Sub-Region and surrounding areas. For many families, these seven days represent more than just medical care; they represent a life-changing opportunity and a future restored.
Small Acts, Big Transformation “Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.” Mr. Besigye Ambrose, Administrator & Human Resource Manager at BethanyKids, noted that the mission is fueled by a unique synergy of local and international partners, each committed to delivering healthcare to the “least reached.” We extend our deepest gratitude to the organizations making this possible:
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Ministry of Health, Uganda
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Mbarara University of Science & Technology (MUST)
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Amigos Internacionales
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Doctors on Mission International
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Bethany Kids
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Mwagale Foundation
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Southern Baptist Missionaries
Through this collective effort, we are not just performing surgeries; we are restoring hope and health to the next generation. Mr. Besigye expressed deep appreciation for the team’s selflessness in serving the disadvantaged.
Voices from the Field: “Our work is lighter and our hearts are full.” Dr. Ssembusi John, General Surgeon at Matany Hospital, welcomed the visiting team with gratitude, highlighting the life-changing cases ready for surgery. He thanked his colleagues for the journey and the full sponsorship, noting how much their expertise empowers the local team.
“Hope restoration is at the heart of our mission.” Dr. Deus Kateregga, Director of St. Kizito Hospital Matany, welcomed the surgical team with deep gratitude for supporting families who cannot afford care. Following an orientation and a tour of the facility, the mission to save a generation is officially underway.
The team is handling two primary surgical domains to address a range of congenital and acquired conditions:
1. Paediatric General Surgery: Hernias in children, Undescended testis, Hirschsprung’s disease, Anorectal malformations, Soft tissue masses, Hypospadias
2. Paediatric ENT & Plastic Surgery, Adenotonsillectomy, Cleft Lip & Cleft Palate repair, Excisions and Mass removals.
Behind every successful surgery is the steady hand of the anaesthesia team. Kudos to the anaesthesiologists and anaesthetists at the camp! Their expertise ensures every child remains safe, comfortable, and pain-free. They are the unsung heroes of the theater.
Mentorship: Building a Sustainable Tomorrow: One of the most significant impacts was the focus on a “legacy of care.” The operating theaters served as classrooms where seasoned surgeons including Dr. Martin Tungotyo, Dr. Timothy Mujyanama, Dr. Hani Bilal, Dr. Danel Kisitu, Dr. Brian Agaba (ENT), Dr. Tommy Wobudubire, Dr. Eden and more mentored the next generation of Ugandan doctors. By allowing mentees to observe and assist in complex procedures, the camp strengthened local surgical capacity, ensuring that expertise remains in the region long after the mission concludes.
A Message from the Vice Chancellor Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika
To: Dr. Felix Oyania, Head of Department, Surgery, and the Entire Surgical Team. I wish to express my profound pride and gratitude for the exceptional work you have accomplished during the Paediatric Surgical Camp in Karamoja.
By leading this mission and collaborating so effectively with the Ministry of Health and our esteemed international partners including Bethany Kids, Amigos Internacionales, and others you have moved our university’s mission from the lecture room to the heart of the community. Your dedication to serving humanity in one of the most underserved regions of our country exemplifies the spirit of Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
To Dr. Oyania and the entire team: your selflessness in restoring dignity to these children and your commitment to mentoring the next generation of surgeons are truly commendable. You have not only saved lives but also strengthened the fabric of our nation’s healthcare.
I am immensely proud of you. Thank you for making “Succeed we MUST” a reality through your service to humanity.
