FEASIBILITY VIST AT ST. FRANCIS MEDICAL CENTRE MBIKKI-JINJA DISTRICT
Feasibility Visit Report: Hernia Aid Project
Date: 1 October 2025
Location: St. Francis Medical Service Centre, Jinja Mbikko
On 1 October 2025, the Rotary Club of Jinja conducted a feasibility visit to St. Francis Medical Service Centre, Jinja Mbikko, as part of the preparatory activities for the Hernia Aid Project. The visit was led by the Club President, Mr. David Katenderi, accompanied by the Club Project Manager. Representing Hernia Aid Project and Hernia International was Dr. Mukalazi Henry Garvin, the Project Country Coordinator.
The purpose of the visit was to assess the facility’s capacity and readiness to participate in the Hernia Aid Project, an initiative designed to empower health facilities to produce their own hernia mesh using locally available resources. This innovative approach aims to enhance sustainability, reduce surgical costs, and improve access to quality healthcare for patients suffering from hernias.
Upon arrival, the team was warmly received by Dr. Charles, the Hospital Director and Medical Superintendent. A meeting was held with the hospital staff to discuss the project’s objectives, expected outcomes, and the collaborative roles of each stakeholder. The discussions were lively and productive, with staff members expressing great enthusiasm and appreciation for the opportunity to be part of a transformative health initiative.
Midway through the meeting, heavy rains interrupted the session, but the team’s spirit remained high. The sound of rain against the roof added a memorable touch to the day, symbolizing renewal and hope for the success of the project.
After the meeting, the visit concluded with a guided tour of the hospital’s operating theatre. The team observed the existing surgical infrastructure and discussed potential improvements to support the local production and use of hernia mesh.
The feasibility visit was a success, marking an important step toward the implementation of the Hernia Aid Project at St. Francis Medical Service Centre. The collaboration between the Rotary Club of Jinja, Hernia Aid Project, Hernia International, and the hospital leadership promises to strengthen healthcare delivery and promote self-reliance in surgical care within the community
