More than 30 children living with Cerebral Palsy have received free medical treatment during a special health camp organised by the Rotary Club of Sonde at St. Charles Lwanga Bukerere Primary School in Mukono Municipality.
The outreach brought much-needed relief to parents who have long struggled with the high cost and limited availability of specialised care for their children.
Rotary Club of Sonde President Christine Benadet Alupo said the initiative was driven by the growing challenges families face in accessing hospital services. She revealed that the club is working toward establishing a permanent facility where children with Cerebral Palsy can receive continuous care and support, easing the burden on caregivers.
Alupo urged parents to seek professional medical care rather than turning to spiritual healers or traditional practitioners.
“This condition is biological, not spiritual. It can only be managed by medical doctors. Parents should not waste their money in churches or witchcraft,” she said.
The Director of the Umbrella Cerebral Palsy Association of Uganda, Christine Kirungi, commended the outreach, noting that many caregivers especially mothers are often left to manage the condition alone after fathers abandon their responsibilities.
“Men have not fully embraced disability inclusion. Many run away when they see disability, leaving the entire burden to mothers and grandmothers,” she said.
Representing the Ministry of Health, Dr. Charles Olalo, Head of the Medical Department, pledged continued government support. He said the ministry is committed to ensuring that children with Cerebral Palsy receive appropriate medical attention, particularly through community-based interventions.
Senior Cerebral Palsy specialist Dr. Justus Steven Byarugaba provided guidance to parents, emphasizing the importance of proper feeding, nutrition, and consistent care in managing the condition.
Parents welcomed the initiative, with Eve Namatovu expressing gratitude and calling for continued assistance. She noted that many families face difficulties traveling long distances to Mulago National Referral Hospital, often spending money and time without accessing the services they need.
“Having a facility closer to us will make treatment more convenient,” she said.
During the event, Rotary District Governor Joseph Kitakule officially opened a new facility designed to offer a safe and supportive resting space for children with Cerebral Palsy, an intervention expected to bring significant relief to parents and caregivers.