The Kampala health care cost continues to burden many residents in Uganda’s capital, especially those living in low-income suburbs. As private hospitals grow increasingly expensive, many people are turning to charity health camps for help. During a recent outreach at the Swaminarayan Temple in Kampala, residents openly shared their medical struggles.
For instance, many residents say poverty blocks them from getting even basic medical checkups. Ritah Kyomuhendo, a single mother of four from Katwe, has lived with a urinary tract infection for months. “I tried visiting clinics, but the cost of tests and treatment was too high,” she explained. “Most of my market earnings only go to food and rent.” Clearly, her situation shows how private medical services remain inaccessible to the working poor. Moreover, many women can no longer afford to consult a gynecologist, even when they suffer serious symptoms.
Similarly, Andrew Kiwanuka, 59, from Nsambya, has struggled with an eye problem for over two years. His children also suffer from a persistent cough and recurring skin rashes. Although he tried to raise money for treatment, he could not afford it. “This free medical camp has finally given us the help we needed,” he said gratefully.
Thankfully, BAPS Charities and Healing Way Hospital launched the four-day health camp to bridge these medical gaps. More than 1,000 people received care during the camp. Organizers created the initiative after noticing how many urban residents lack access to affordable health services.
According to Jay Patel, a volunteer with BAPS Charities, they identified widespread shortages of medicine in local clinics. “People often avoid treatment simply because they cannot afford it,” he explained. “Therefore, we decided to provide basic care and medicines free of charge.”
Additionally, Ajay K. Singh, another event organizer, confirmed they plan to hold more camps across Uganda. He encouraged communities to take full advantage whenever these services become available. In his view, consistent outreach can save many lives.
Meanwhile, Dr. Ashraf Asega of Healing Way Hospital Bugoloobi pointed out that the camp focused on treating urban-related illnesses. These included HIV, malaria, UTIs, diabetes, and syphilis. “We’ve seen many patients struggling with sugar levels, HIV, and malaria,” he said. “In most cases, early treatment would have prevented complications.”
Because of the Kampala health care cost, many patients delay treatment until their conditions worsen. This delay often leads to serious consequences, especially for those with chronic conditions. Without regular access to care, people suffer longer and risk disability or death.
Unfortunately, Kampala’s health struggles reflect a national problem. Across Uganda, thousands of families cannot afford private hospitals. At the same time, public facilities remain poorly stocked and underfunded. As a result, many patients end up untreated or rely on donations.
To address the crisis, health experts are urging government action. They recommend improving public clinics, hiring more staff, and ensuring a steady supply of drugs. Furthermore, they call for subsidized services for low-income earners. Without these reforms, the country could face a worsening health disaster.
Read: Uganda Health Workers Face Burnout and Mass Exodus
