The Ruth Gaylord Hospital in Maganjo funded by American Citizens caters to at least 1,500 low-income people every month. Patients are treated at a relatively low cost and while others receive medical care. “We believe that we should not lose lives in labor and all circumstances considered minor. We are all committed to this cause. The inadequacy of resources is not a limiting factor for anybody.” Said, Charles Sekwe Lugemwa – Country Director, Hope Medical Clinics.

Officials of the Buganda Kingdom, the Health Ministry and the US Ambassador to Uganda expressed appreciation for these services. “And so when such an initiative comes up, we are very happy that you are bridging those gaps that we have not been able to...” Said, Diana Atwine – Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health. “The free surgeries and free eyeglasses are great catching programs not only to us but all the people of Uganda.” Said, Joseph Mulwanyamuli – Former Katikiro, Buganda Kingdom. “It takes collective action by communities, it takes people really wanting to make a difference in whatever way they can in their communities and in their communities.” Said, Deborah Malac – U.S Ambassador to Uganda.

NTV sought Malac’s views on the doctors’ strike which was entering in its third week. She said there were concerns about salary enhancements and improved welfare and the conditions of work should be listened to. “You can’t deliver the service if you don’t have the resources so we would make a plea to the government to put more into its Health Sector to make sure there are adequate resources, not just support salaries for health workers but to ensure there is medicine and supplies in clinics and hospitals when the people go and they need them.” Dr. the US Ambassador to Uganda.

Malac urged the government and the doctors to settle the standoff peacefully. “We understand the concerns of the health workers but there is something that needs to be discussed and resolved peacefully into dialogue and discussion.” President Museveni last week warned the striking doctors that they would be sucked. However, the Permanent Secretary Diana Atwine said the situation will not get to this. “The firing I wouldn’t want to go there now until it is inevitable. But for now, we still have the opportunity to resolve these issues well without firing.” Ruth Gaylord is a small private hospital that was opened in 2013. It is operated by Hope Medical Clinic Uganda.