For three days, close to 2,000 residents from Jinja and neighboring communities accessed free healthcare services at the Integrated Medical Camp spearheaded by the Insurance Regulatory Authority of Uganda (IRA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and other partners. This initiative is part of efforts to enhance healthcare access and promote insurance literacy.
The camp, held from 28th to 30th October 2026 at Mpumudde Health Centre IV, attracted residents from Mpumudde, Masese, Kakira, Walukuba, Namulesa, Bugembe and other parts of Jinja City, bringing essential health services closer to them while highlighting the importance of preventive healthcare and financial protection against unforeseen risks. The initiative provided a range of free services, as seen below;
Speaking at the official opening ceremony, IRA Ag. Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Protazio Sande, reaffirmed the insurance industry’s commitment to supporting initiatives that address challenges affecting communities. He called upon political and health leaders in the Busoga region to mobilise residents towards establishing sustainable health financing arrangements that would cushion households against the financial strain associated with rising medical expenses. https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSpeKXh7H/
Representing the Mayor of Jinja City, the Secretary for Health, Hon. Irene Nakato Wakabi, commended IRA, insurance industry players and the participating partners for their collective commitment to improving the health and well-being of Jinja residents.
She particularly drew attention to mental health, urging residents to recognize its importance and seek professional help and support whenever necessary. She further reinforced the need for communities to approach healthcare holistically, recognising both physical and mental well-being as essential components of a healthy society.
The In-Charge of Mpumudde Health Centre IV, Dr. Charles Waako, emphasised that meaningful community development begins with a healthy population.
Expressing concern over the increasing prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases, particularly diabetes and hypertension, Dr. Waako encouraged residents to prioritise preventive healthcare rather than waiting until illness becomes severe.
He urged even those who considered themselves healthy to take advantage of the free medical services, noting the importance of routine check-ups in identifying potential health complications early.
Dr. Waako further encouraged residents to use the opportunity to learn about insurance and how it can help individuals and families prepare for unexpected circumstances, including sudden illness and the associated financial implications.
The three-day initiative was made possible through collaboration between IRA and several partners, including the Ministry of Health, National Medical Stores, Sole Hope, Busoga Health Forum, Mukalu Leadership Consult Ltd, Whisper Hospital and Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, demonstrating the importance of partnerships in extending essential healthcare services to communities and strengthening public awareness of preventive health practices.
By combining healthcare outreach with insurance education, the initiative reinforced the importance of building healthier, better-informed and financially resilient communities.
