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Robert Odwar's five-year-old son was in and out of Serere Hospital, unaware of his heart defect.

The boy who was five months old at the time, was referred to Soroti Hospital for further investigations.

At the hospital, medics confirmed the heart problem, leading to an immediate transfer of the little one to the Uganda Heart Institute, where specialists recommended surgery costing shillings 19.6 million.

Unable to cover the expenses, Odwar sought sponsors, and fortunately, his son is among the first group of children travelling to India for cardiac surgeries.

Another beneficiary is Katty Ayang, a resident of Alebtong district. Ayang's 11-month-old baby displayed signs of a heart defect since birth, leading to numerous hospital visits in the district.

The complications started with a challenging Caesarean-section birth, and the baby's delayed cry raised concerns. The following day, the baby received treatment and glucose due to irregular heartbeats.

At six months, a thorough check-up at the Uganda Heart Institute confirmed a large hole in the baby’s heart, prompting medics to advise surgery in India. The little girl is now part of the group traveling to India for urgent heart surgery.

Speaking during a media briefing in Kampala on Friday, Kumar Sasi Nair, the Secretary of the India Association Uganda said they have partnered with the leading cardiac specialists and medical facilities in India to provide heart surgeries to needy children who are not able to afford such surgeries.

Since the inception of heart surgery in 2008, the association so far has completed 161 surgeries, and this year, with this first batch of three patients. He added that they have pending applications of over 300 cases.

Nair said the heart surgery programme offers a range of cardiac interventions, including bypass surgeries, valve replacement, and other critical procedures.

He revealed that through collaboration with renowned Indian medical professionals and hospitals, the initiative seeks to enhance access to high-quality cardiac care, addressing a crucial gap in the healthcare landscape of Uganda.

The minimum cost of heart operation in India is $10,000 (approximately sh37m) but it can go beyond depending on the condition.

Uganda Airlines

Uganda Airlines spokesperson Rahim Shakila Lamar said they will fly the patients and their caretakers to Mumbai so that they can get the medical attention that they require.