By Benedict Mukoni———————-
Catholic Religious Sisters Health Care Initiative Uganda (CRSHCIU), a network under ARUorganized a 5-day free obstetric fistula camp at St. Francis Hospital, Buluba in Mayuge district, Jinja Diocese in April 21 – 25, 2025. This was the third kind.
The fistula free surgical repair and treatment camp served as a beacon of hope for many women who have long suffered in silence due to this debilitating condition. Obstetric fistulas, often resulting from prolonged labour without access to proper medical care, can lead to chronic incontinence, social isolation, and emotional distress.
According to the National Coordinator of CRSHCIU, Sr. Maria Goretti Kabakaali – DTS, the camp attracted 47 patients for screening mainly from the outskirts of Jinja district with two special cases referred from Moroto district. It focused on surgical interventions, holistic care and psychosocial support for the women affected. This initiative, sponsored by the Global Solidarity Forum, marks a significant step towards addressing the health needs of vulnerable women in the community.
The CRSHCIU involvement in the initiative demonstrates remarkable compassion and dedication to caring for women affected by obstetric fistulas. The efforts of the initiative has helped to create a safe and supportive environment, where women can receive the medical attention and emotional support they need to heal and rebuild their lives.
The fistula camp initiative is not only about providing medical care but also about empowering women and communities. By addressing the root causes of obstetric fistulas and providing support to those affected, the initiative aims to promote women’s health, dignity, and well-being.
The success of the fistula camp initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration and partnership. The Global Solidarity Forum, St. Francis Hospital, Buluba and the CRSHCIU have come together to make a meaningful difference in the lives of thousands of women, demonstrating the impact that can be achieved through collective effort and commitment
The fistula camp initiative has transformed the lives of countless women, enabling them to regain their dignity, confidence, and place in their communities. As the initiative continues to grow and expand, it will have a lasting impact on the lives of women and families, promoting a brighter future for generations to come.
One of the victims, real name withheld, extended her heartfelt gratitude to CRSHCIU, Global Solidarity Forum and St. Francis hospital, Buluba and appealed to them and other collaborators of good will to continue with the initiative so that other women can also benefit from it.
A 22-year-old patient revealed that she developed the fistula due to an improperly repaired perineal tear while another one disclosed to have developed it after being forced to deliver from home and faced complications during the delivery process.
Dr. Asiimwe, a fistula surgeon who also led the surgical team during the Fistula Camp advised mothers to make sure that they give birth in the hospitals such that if such eventualities happen, they can be properly rectified and monitored to avoid cases of fistula that can even escalate to higher levels.
