Busoga women benefit from Kyabazinga-initiated surgeries
Through Kyabazinga’s advocacy, Bolton arrived in Uganda two months ago and has since performed 207 surgeries at various government health facilities across Busoga.
Dr Ty Erickson Bolton and other medics carrying out an operation. Dr Bolton's work has brought relief to several patients suffering from conditions, such as fistula, hernia, caesarean complications, uterine repairs or removals, and post-delivery issues. (Photo by Tom Gwebayanga)
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In an initiative spearheaded by Kyabazinga (Busoga king) William Gabula Nadiope IV, hundreds of women in Busoga have accessed life-changing free surgical services, led by Dr Ty Erickson Bolton, a gynecology specialist from the United Kingdom (UK).
Through Kyabazinga’s advocacy, Bolton arrived in Uganda two months ago and has since performed 207 surgeries at various government health facilities across Busoga.
His work has brought relief to several patients suffering from conditions, such as fistula, hernia, caesarean complications, uterine repairs or removals, and post-delivery issues. Beyond surgeries, he has also been mentoring local surgeons, training medical students, and conducting workshops on childcare and nutrition for caregivers and practitioners.
Dr Ty Erickson Bolton interacting with mothers at Nankandulo Health Centre maternity ward. (Photo by Tom Gwebayanga)
Speaking at Lubega Institute of Nursing & Health Professionals in Iganga municipality, Bolton expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.
Due to limited income and long distances, many lives are lost because patients cannot afford exorbitant medical bills.
His interventions have spanned multiple facilities, including Kamuli General Hospital, Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, Kidera Health Centre IV in Buyende, Bugaya Health Centre IV, Kitayunjwa Health Centre III, New Mulago Women's Specialised & Neonatal Hospital in Kampala, and Nankandulo Health Centre IV in Kamuli district.
Impact on patients and healthcare workers
For Suzan Biryeri, 45, a mother from Jinja City, Bolton’s visit proved to be a lifeline. Suffering from severe post-delivery complications, she faced the daunting prospect of undergoing an expensive surgery that her modest income could not cover.
“I had little money, and the surgery was overdue,” Biryeri told New Vision Online on May 10, 2026.
“Amid the stalemate, I was shortlisted for a free surgery. This intervention saved me from having my uterus removed.”
Similarly, Proscovia Nansikombi, 35, from Bulembo village, credits Bolton with saving her life after she suffered a ruptured uterus. Treated at Kidera Health Centre IV, Nansikombi praised the surgeon, saying, “the surgery was timely; otherwise, I would be dead now.”
Healthcare workers have equally welcomed the support. Dr Joel Mutaka, the lone surgeon at Kidera Health Centre IV in Buyende district, highlighted how Bolton’s presence significantly eased the workload in the theatre.
“Being the only surgeon here, I used to spend long hours in the operating room,” Mutaka said.
“During Bolton’s visit, the pressure reduced, allowing us to manage more cases efficiently.”
Dr. Bolton and Kidera Health Center 1V surgeon, Dr. Joel Mutaka (left) share a professional consultation moment. (Photo by Tom Gwebayanga)
However, Buyende LC5 chairperson Michael Kanaku lamented the limited timeline of the initiative.
“He (Bolton) has touched many lives but will leave soon, leaving behind ailing patients who still need his help,” Kanaku said, urging for an extension of the programme.
Kyabazinga Nadiope appreciated Bolton’s dedication.
“We met in the UK, and I admired him. Our friendship matured into requesting him to assist my people,” the Kyabazinga said.
He emphasised that this intervention complements ongoing efforts by other well-wishers who regularly conduct health camps across the 11 chiefdoms of Busoga.