Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, has called upon people of Buvuma County to strengthen efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
“We must continue to strengthen our efforts in preventing HIV and protecting ourselves from infection. Those living with HIV should also ensure that they take their medication consistently,” the Kabaka said.
Kabaka reminded Buvuma residents that in 2017, UNAIDS entrusted the Buganda Kingdom, through the Kabaka, with the responsibility of serving as a champion in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Africa, with Buvuma among the areas at the centre of the campaign.
Kabaka’s message was delivered by the retired Bishop of West Buganda, Bishop Henry Katumba Tamale, during the launch of the Tubeere Balamu health campaign organised by the Kabaka Foundation at Buvuma Health Centre IV.
Kabaka also highlighted other health challenges affecting the people of Buvuma, including tuberculosis, malaria and diseases associated with poor sanitation.
“People should make use of health facilities and seek professional medical care whenever they are sick,” he urged.
He commended health workers for their commitment to providing free medical services to the people of Buganda and thanked the Buvuma County Chief, Mbuubi Micheal Mboowa, together with his council, for supporting the health outreach.
Speaking at the event, Bishop Henry Katumba Tamale, who doubles as Vice Chairperson of the Kabaka Foundation Board, appreciated the health workers and volunteers who had dedicated themselves to treating the King’s subjects at no cost.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Kabaka Foundation, Edward Kaggwa Ndagala, said the two-day health outreach would also provide Hepatitis B vaccination to residents.
“We encourage the people of Buvuma to come and take advantage of this health camp so that they can receive the necessary medical services,” Kaggwa Ndagala said.
The Buvuma County Chief, Mbuubi Micheal Mboowa, emphasised the importance of regular medical check-ups.
“Knowing your health status helps you take preventive measures and address diseases at an early stage,” Mboowa said.
Buvuma Member of Parliament, Migadde Nduggwa urged residents to seek medical advice instead of waiting until they become seriously ill.
He cautioned the public against buying medicines that have not been prescribed or recommended by qualified health professionals, describing the practice as dangerous.
He further encouraged residents to donate blood to help save the lives of other patients and urged them to embrace the Tubeere Balamu health insurance scheme.
Assistant District Health Officer for Buvuma, Mohammed Mukwaya, thanked the Buganda Kingdom for continuing to include Buvuma in its health programmes.
“We appreciate the Buganda Kingdom for thinking about the people of Buvuma and including them in the Kingdom’s health initiatives,” Mukwaya said.
He also expressed concern over poor sanitation in some communities, noting that some residents do not have proper latrines.
Available data from ministry of health indicates that In Buvuma district, the HIV prevalence rate is 15.3% due to lack of awareness and education concerning the spread and existence of the virus throughout the entire 52 islands which make-up Buvuma district.
