Buhuka, Kikuube District — CNOOC Uganda Limited, in collaboration with the Chinese Medical Team, successfully held a medical camp at Buhuka Health Centre III in Kikuube District under the theme “Health and Wellness for a Better Future.”
The 2025 medical camp aimed to improve access to healthcare services, offer free treatment to residents, raise awareness on disease prevention, and support early detection of serious health conditions.
Over 25 medical doctors and specialists participated, with a strong emphasis on early screening and treatment for congenital heart diseases. The team also addressed a range of infectious diseases such as malaria, typhoid, syphilis, hepatitis B, and HIV, alongside non-communicable conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and ulcers.
Maternal and child health services were a key focus area. In addition to medical treatment, health education messages—translated for local understanding—were broadcast throughout the day. These messages included guidance on preventing the spread of diseases such as Mpox, malaria, and cholera. Health workers also issued practical guidelines aimed at reducing disease transmission in the community.
As part of the outreach, CNOOC Uganda and the Chinese Medical Team donated essential medical supplies and equipment to Buhuka Health Centre III. The donations included hospital beds, eye and ear diagnostic tools, bedside lockers, weighing scales, blood pressure machines, fetoscopes, an instrument cupboard, IUCD kits, examination torches, and privacy screens for patients.
This medical camp is part of CNOOC Uganda’s broader, long-term strategy to support public health through sustained outreach and service delivery. Over the years, the company has maintained a consistent presence in community health development.
Local residents warmly welcomed the initiative. Vanessa, a mother from Buhuka, shared, “This camp came at the right time. I brought my child with a skin condition and we were treated by a specialist for free. We’re truly grateful to CNOOC.” Another resident, Kaahwa, noted, “Last year, I was treated for ulcers. This time, my wife received care. These medical camps save us a lot of money and bring hope.” Gerald, a local health volunteer, praised the educational component: “We now understand more about diseases like malaria and cholera, and how to protect our children. The health messages were so helpful.”
Speaking at the event, Mr. Hu Weijie, Vice President of CNOOC Uganda Limited, said, “We are proud to host this medical camp, which demonstrates our unwavering commitment to the health of Ugandan communities and strengthens China-Uganda relations. Through these programs, we aim to build a healthier and more prosperous future.”
Hon. Opio Vincent Alpher, Vice Chairperson of the Kikuube District LCV, who represented Chairman Peter Banura, expressed appreciation for CNOOC’s continued support. “We are grateful for CNOOC Uganda’s dedication to improving healthcare in our district. This camp has had a direct and positive impact on our people and further solidified the partnership between our two nations,” he said.
Also in attendance was Mr. Fan Xuecheng, Minister Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy, who reaffirmed China’s ongoing commitment to Uganda’s development. “China remains dedicated to working with Uganda to improve public health and livelihoods through collaborative programs under the Belt and Road Initiative and the FOCAC Nine Programs,” he stated.
Beyond healthcare, CNOOC Uganda continues to invest in community development through various initiatives, including international scholarships, the CNOOC–Bunyoro Kitara Amasaza Football Tournament, academic excellence awards, emergency relief for vulnerable households, and vocational training programs that have certified over 1,000 youth.
