Hundreds of people in Lyantonde are receiving free medical treatment this week as the government holds a three-day health camp ahead of Uganda’s Heroes Day celebrations. The camp, which started on Tuesday at Lyantonde Technical Institute in Kaliiro Sub County, is offering check-ups, medicine, and specialist care to locals who often struggle to afford or access proper healthcare.

Organized by Hon. Alice Kaboyo, the Minister for Luwero Triangle, the medical boot camp is part of the activities leading up to National Heroes Day on June 9th. This is the third year such an event has taken place, and it has already brought relief to many who have been suffering in silence.

The camp is packed with doctors, nurses, and specialists from Mulago Hospital, the Ministry of Health, and the Uganda Cancer Institute. They are providing services like general consultations, dental care, eye check-ups, maternal health services, and treatment for chronic diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure. There is also a pharmacy on-site where patients receive free medication after being examined.

One woman, who had been living with severe stomach pain for years, was overjoyed after being told she did not have cancer as she had feared. “I heard people talking about free doctors here, but I didn’t believe it until I came,” she said. “The doctors checked me and said I’m fine—it’s just a treatable condition. They even gave me free medicine. I’m so relieved.”

Even security personnel assigned to the event took advantage of the free services. Joel Onen, a police officer maintaining order at the camp, had a painful tooth extracted. “This tooth has been disturbing me for weeks,” he said. “I couldn’t sleep well because of the pain. Now it’s gone, and I didn’t pay anything. This camp is a blessing.”

Beyond treatment, the camp is also teaching people how to stay healthy. There are sessions on preventing diseases, proper nutrition, and managing long-term illnesses. Emergency cases are being handled immediately, and those who need further care are being referred to hospitals.

Hon. Kaboyo explained that the medical camp is a way of honoring the sacrifices made by Uganda’s heroes. “Heroes Day is not just about remembering the past; it’s about improving lives today,” she said. “Many people in rural areas suffer because they can’t afford to see a doctor. By bringing these services to them, we are continuing the work our heroes started.”

The response from the community has been overwhelming, with long lines of people waiting to see the doctors. Many say they wish such camps happened more often. As Heroes Day approaches, this initiative serves as a reminder that the best way to celebrate those who fought for Uganda is by ensuring that all citizens have access to basic healthcare.

The government has promised to continue supporting such programs, especially in hard-to-reach areas. For now, the people of Lyantonde are grateful for the rare opportunity to receive quality medical care—free of charge.