CoRSU Hospital launches charity walk to raise sh400m for children with disabilities

Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services in Uganda (CoRSU) has launched the Annual CoRSU Walk under the theme “Bring Hope to Children with Disability.”

The initiative seeks to raise sh400 million to fund life-changing surgeries for 300 children, procure vital medical equipment, and renovate the hospital’s Outpatient Department.

The launch, held Thursday at CoRSU Hospital, brought together corporate partners, development organisations, media representatives, and community members—all united in advancing disability inclusion and access to specialised rehabilitative services for children from disadvantaged households.

The walk is slated for October 6, 2025. 

Bakidde Aloysius, Board Chairperson of the CoRSU Walk Committee, applauded the growing support for the cause.

“Last year’s walk was nothing short of extraordinary. The spirit of giving was infectious, and we managed to raise over Sh78m. With those funds, we provided at least 16 children with surgeries they desperately needed. We also procured essential physiotherapy equipment and expanded rehabilitation services. The smiles we saw and the tears of relief from parents are memories that fuel our mission every single day,” he said.

Robert Ochai, CEO of CoRSU, emphasised the urgency of the campaign.

“We are doing this work for two main reasons. First, to raise awareness about children with disabilities. Too many are hidden away in communities and never brought into care simply because they are disabled. These children deserve opportunities, treatment, and the chance to live a better life,” he noted.

He added that growing awareness has led to a steady rise in children seeking treatment.

“In the past, parents believed nothing could be done. But with proper intervention, lives can improve significantly. Today, we are receiving children from across Uganda and even from outside the country,” he explained.

Despite this progress, Ochai revealed that the hospital is overstretched.

“We often plan for about 2,000 surgeries in a year, but halfway through, we’ve already exceeded that and run out of funds. On average, we conduct 3,000 surgeries annually, yet about 2,000 children remain on waiting lists. That means we reach only 50–60% of those in need. The average surgery costs Sh3 million per child, but some require more if multiple procedures are involved,” he said.