IHK’s C-Care, Hope Against Malaria partner to combat economic dicadence

KAMPALA - International Hospital Kampala (IHK’s) charity arm, C-Care Uganda, has partnered with Hope Against Malaria in a crusade against low productivity, caused by the Malaria epidemic in the city suburb of Namuwongo. 

The three-month malaria prevention and treatment project target Namuwongo, Kampala’s second-largest slum, which is home to about 15,000 residents, was unveiled recently at IHK, Kampala.

Eva Kagona, the programmes Manager at Malaria Partners Uganda, said that the project is funded by a $10,000 grant secured by the Rotaract Club of Kampala Muyenga Breeze with support from Malaria Partners International.

“This area continues to register some of the highest malaria rates in the city due to poor drainage, stagnant water, and minimal health infrastructure,” she said, adding that the initiative seeks to reduce the burden of malaria, particularly among pregnant women and children under five.

She said that the disease burden has affected the productivity of young people, who spend long hours in health care centers.

Azhar Sundhoo, CEO of C-Care, said that they believe that true healthcare is about building resilient communities, fostering environments where every individual, regardless of their socio-economic standing, has the fundamental right to health and a life free from preventable suffering," he said.

"This initiative is an investment in health, in education, economic stability, and in the very fabric of society. When malaria's grip loosens, the entire community thrives," he said.

Prudence Asobola, Project Manager at C-Care Foundation, said that every day, over fourteen children die from malaria in Uganda, many without treatment or documentation.

“Pregnant women are especially vulnerable, with over 29% at risk of infection and complications. Through this project, we’re mobilising the Namuwongo community by training health workers, distributing mosquito nets, and providing preventive therapy and antenatal care,” she said.

She added that they will create a one-stop centre where mothers can access the tools and support needed to protect themselves and their children from malaria.

Asobola further said that C-Care’s contribution to the initiative includes malaria screening, testing, and treatment through the C-Care Foundation Clinic.

The organisation will provide rapid diagnostic kits, anti-malarial drugs, and oversee the training of local health workers and volunteers to equip them with essential skills in malaria prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for sustainable impact.

In the course of the initiative, the Namuwongo Community Health Initiative will distribute 1,000 insecticide-treated nets to pregnant women and families with children under five.

“Mobile clinics will offer free screening, diagnosis, and treatment directly within the community. Quarterly household follow-ups will help ensure proper ITN usage, monitor outcomes, and connect families to support networks for ongoing health and behaviour change.”

The project is expected to directly benefit 1,000 individuals and indirectly reach over 20,000 people across Namuwongo and nearby areas such as Bukasa, Kisugu, and Muyenga through awareness and education campaigns.