In the short time it takes to read this article, over 30 children under the age of five will have lost their lives. Tragically, most of these deaths could have been prevented. Causes such as diarrhoea, pneumonia, childbirth complications, and malaria continue to claim innocent lives. In just 24 hours, the number of young lives lost will exceed a staggering 22,000. These heart-wrenching statistics are a stark reality, particularly in developing countries. It is against this backdrop that Dr. Eng. Silver Mugisha, a passionate advocate for child health, took center stage at a fundraising event held at Hotel Africana, inspiring the community of Ishaka.
The purpose of the fundraising campaign is to finance the construction of a comprehensive maternal and child healthcare center. This facility aims to address the pressing health challenges faced by the population in Ishaka, providing a centralized location where mothers and children can receive essential care.
Dr. Mugisha emphasized the urgent need for heightened awareness about maternal health issues to prevent unnecessary maternal deaths during labor. He called upon the audience to tap into their emotional incentives and generously contribute to this noble cause. Highlighting the remarkable innovations and advancements at Ishaka Hospital, he remarked that the institution openly expresses gratitude for the support it receives.
Notably, Dr. Eng. Silver Mugisha’s connection to Ishaka Hospital runs deep, as it was the very first hospital where he received care during his childhood. Expressing his gratitude towards the hospital’s leadership and operational excellence, he acknowledged that no institution is without its challenges and achievements. Dr. Mugisha emphasized that leadership is not merely a title but an action, and he commended the evident manifestation of true leadership within Ishaka Hospital.
Furthermore, Dr. Mugisha urged the audience to broaden their perspective and explore additional avenues of support beyond the hospital’s infrastructure. He recognized the importance of philanthropy and encouraged individuals to find joy in giving. He emphasized that donating not only contributes to one’s personal well-being but also has a ripple effect, inspiring others to give and making a lasting impact on society. His parting words resonated deeply: “If you want to receive tomorrow, give today.”
About Ishaka Hospital:
Established in 1949 and officially commissioned in 1950, Ishaka Adventist Hospital has been at the forefront of healthcare provision in the greater Bushenyi district and beyond. Nestled atop Kyeshero Hill, also known as Nchwanga, in the rural town of Ishaka, the hospital serves as a vital lifeline for the surrounding communities.
Strategically located along the Mbarara-Kasese main road, at the junction to Rukungiri/Kabale and Kasese towns, the hospital is easily accessible. Situated approximately 350 km from the capital city of Kampala, Ishaka Hospital boasts a capacity of 120 beds and primarily caters to the healthcare needs of the rural poor in Bushenyi, Sheema, Rubirizi, Mitooma, Buhweju, Kasese, and Ntungamo districts. Serving individuals from varying income levels, the hospital provides comprehensive services, including male and female wards, a maternity ward, maternal child health services, radiology, dental care, a lifestyle and wellness center, laboratory services, a chaplaincy department, and an HIV clinic.
Furthermore, Ishaka Hospital plays a pivotal role in medical education by housing two medical training schools: the School of Allied Health Sciences and the School of Nursing and Midwifery. Additionally, the hospital collaborates with the community-based health delivery organization, Ishaka Health Plan, to extend its reach and impact on the well-being of the population
