Situated in the North- Eastern Part of Uganda lays the Karamoja region. This consists of 9 districts including Amudat, Naka-Pirpirit, Moroto, Abim, Kaabong, Napak & Kotido, Karenga Nabilatuk The region is well well-known for Agro-Nomadic Pastoralism. The people in the area are associated with Cattle raiding, or cattle rustling. Sometimes, the raids can turn violent, which often disrupt growth and development. It goes without mention that families are always on the move, in search of settlement with their cattle. Having a permanent home is a myth.
Having a girl-child graduate with a Master of Medicine in pediatrics and child health care calls for a celebration. Dr. Longes Doreen Faith is indeed a “kara-gem” that stands as a inspiration to others .With an interview with Dr. Longes this is what she had to say.
Dr. Faith, you’re an inspiration, especially coming from a region known for its nomadic lifestyle. What sparked your passion for becoming a doctor?
Dr. Faith: My desire to be a doctor emerged in my childhood, fueled by my father’s unwavering faith in me. He gifted me medical books, inscribing them with a powerful message: “To my beloved daughter, Dr. Doreen Faith to be, may God bless her and make it a reality.” His words became my guiding light.
Education must have played a significant role in your journey. Tell us about your academic path.
Dr. Faith: From the background of Nomadic Pastoralists, I attended various primary schools in Karamoja, ultimately completing my studies at Kalas Girls Primary School in Amudat district. I later joined St. Paul’s College Mbale for UCE and Merryland High School Entebbe for UACE. Finally, I obtained my Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from Kampala International University (KIU).
KIU then MUST, What were your guiding lights during your medical training?
Dr. Faith: I was profoundly inspired by Dr. Barnabas Atwiine, the then head of pediatrics at KIU. His dedication to children’s well-being and his passion for teaching left me no choice but rather to be like him. He loved and treated children so well and taught us to do the same. He did not stop at that he would get us other good mentors from MUST like Dr. Kumba Elias. If there is anything these doctors did was help me define my dream and for that I am grateful to them . I successfully finished my Bachelors degree in January and internship was in August . A friend told me about a pre- internship opportunity in Kisizi Church of Uganda hospital. I applied and I was considered.. When August clocked, me and my colleagues were retained as intern doctors, the hospital director said our cohort was so excellent at whatever we did.
So, after your internship at Kisizi C.O.U hospital Rukungiri, how did you end up pursuing your Master’s degree in pediatrics at MUST?
Dr. Faith:After my Internship, I had the opportunity to participate in a training on Results-Based Financing organized by the Ministry of Health at Mburara country resort. It was during a lunch break at this training that I rushed to MUST to meet Dr. Barnabas Atwiine, who had previously inspired me during my studies at KIU. I used the opportunity to inquire about the Master’s program in pediatrics at MUST and whether he could provide a recommendation letter to my application. Dr. Atwiine was incredibly encouraging. He emphasized that success in the program was entirely about me and I needed to focus on three key qualities: determination, resilience, and commitment. Heeding his advice, I submitted my application and before long, I received my admission letter .This more than ever drove me towards achieving my dream of becoming a pediatrician. There was no turning back .
Your journey continued with a Master’s degree in pediatrics. What was your experience at MUST?
Dr. Faith: MUST provided a nurturing environment that fostered my development as an all round doctor. The residency program equipped me with the skills to seamlessly transition into various roles – doctor, nurse, caregiver,counselor and even a mother to my patients. I improved my research and teaching abilities, allowing me to mentor both undergraduate and postgraduate students, guide their learning, and identify areas for improvement.
Beyond general pediatrics, what specific areas capture your interest?
Dr. Faith: While I appreciate all aspects of pediatrics, I am particularly drawn to hematology, oncology, and newborn care. These areas are so wanting, today, I stand not only as a qualified pediatrician but also as a mentor, eager to empower others as I was empowered.
What are your aspirations for the future, especially considering your background?
Dr. Faith: As the first pediatrician from Karamoja region, my primary goal is to improve healthcare services in my region, with a particular focus on pediatrics and child health. I also dream of mentoring others to pursue specialized education and establishing a medical center offering specialized services and facilitating access to medical care. Additionally, I plan to organize medical camps to reach communities.
Acknowledgement
It will be unfair not to acknowledge my assigned mentor Dr. Elizabeth Najjingo. As a resident , she taught me resilience and adaptation to any challenge that may arise. To my alma mater MUST thank you for nurturing me and for the support rendered through the Kayanja Fellowship this scholarship was the cherry on the cake. This motivated me more to work hard, I felt I owed to the board that selected me. Mbarara Regional Referral hospital where I trained thank you so much and to my Inspirer Dr. Barnabas I promise I will not let you down.
To my family my parents, Mr. Abong Luke Jackson Abwangamoi and Ms. Napeyok Rose you are my rock, to my siblings our memories will forever last, to my dearest son Lokoroi Jaysen Bwangamoi you can be anything in this world mummy loves you
With your determination and the support of others, you are certain to make a significant impact. Dr. Faith, thank you for sharing your inspiring story.
Dr. Faith: I am grateful for the opportunity to share my journey and hope it inspires others to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background or circumstances.