By Jamillah Kemigisa
Bukoto, Kampala: Hope filled the community of Bukoto on Wednesday as Shree Kutchi Leva Patel Samaj (SKPS) launched its highly anticipated two-day free medical camp, offering essential healthcare services to residents who often struggle to access or afford medical treatment.
By 1:30 PM, the turnout had already exceeded expectations, with more than 550 people receiving medical care within the first hours of the outreach. Organizers estimate that by the close of the event tomorrow, over 7,000 residents will have been attended to, marking one of Uganda’s largest free medical initiatives this year.
SKPS, a charitable organization known for its work in healthcare, sanitation, education, and social welfare, rolled out an extensive range of services including general consultations, laboratory testing, paediatrics, dental care, vaccinations, HIV testing and counselling, women’s clinic services, blood donation, and pharmacy support.
Ramesh Halai, the lead SKPS volunteer, told Spy Uganda that the camp reflects the organization’s long-term commitment to improving healthcare access across the country. He noted that their previous outreach in Moroto served more than 5,000 people, motivating the team to expand their impact in Kampala.
“This is our third branded medical camp in Uganda,” Halai said. “The overwhelming success in Moroto encouraged us to bring this outreach to Kampala, where many residents face challenges accessing proper healthcare. Today is just the beginning — we expect to serve over 7,000 people by the end of tomorrow.”
Attendance continued to rise steadily throughout the afternoon as residents streamed in for free treatment.
The camp is being held in partnership with several medical institutions and fully supported by the Ministry of Health, Mengo Hospital, and other health partners, ensuring that vulnerable communities receive high-quality medical care at no cost.
Residents who received treatment expressed deep gratitude for the initiative.
Sarah Nakimbugwe, a resident of Kisaasi, said she had been struggling with severe eye irritation and blurred vision for weeks but could not afford an eye examination.
“Today, I was examined by a doctor, received proper treatment, and even got medication for free. This outreach has truly restored my hope,” she said.
Tom Wanyama, a boda boda rider from Kyebando, had postponed dental care for more than a year due to high costs.
“Dental treatment is expensive, but today I was treated without paying anything,” he said. “I’m heading home pain-free. SKPS has blessed our community.”
Many described the camp as timely, a blessing, and life-saving, especially at a time when medical expenses remain out of reach for many households.
Organizers have encouraged residents of Bukoto, Ntinda, Kisaasi, Kyebando, Kamwokya, and neighboring areas to take advantage of the services available for the remainder of the outreach.
With thousands expected by tomorrow evening, the SKPS medical camp stands out as one of Uganda’s most impactful free healthcare interventions of 2025, delivering not only treatment but renewed hope for a healthier, stronger community.
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