Joy as Bwindi Community Hospital Celebrates 20 years of Existence

Friday, November 17, 2023 marked as a momentous occassion as Bwindi Community Hospital (BCH) celebrated 20 years of providing excellent health cares services. The event that was held at he Uganda Nursing School Bwindi sports grounds in Buhoma saw thousands of people from kigezi sub- region and beyond gather together and celebrate as one. This day also marked as the 3rd graduation for the Nursing School, and the 1st graduation for the pioneer students for the School of Clinical Medicine.

On this day, the Nursing School; Uganda Nursing School Bwindi celebrated 10 years of training top- notch health workers in Kanungu district. In his remarks, Dr. Asaph Owamukamaeli, the Executive Director noted that the hospital was not only commemorating the passing of time but also the countless lives touched by the unwavering commitment to providing accessible and exceptional healthcare services.

“This anniversary is a tribute to the outstanding faculty, mentors, and staff who have tirelessly nurtured the minds and hearts of our graduates. The School of Clinical Medicine, now 3 years is already burgeoining and taking a center stage in training top-notch clinicians for the region.” Dr. Owamukamaeli also recognised the Individuals who have played an intergral part in this journey of 20 years; from founders i.e. The Kellermann Foundation, the school benefactors- Steve and James, and the dedicated partners who have supported the different activities throughout the course of the years.

These partners include; Else Krosenr Freseniusn Stiftung Foundation(Fistula Camps), AFRICOMED( Orthopedic camps), REACH Bwindi, Jamie’s fund, Amberccrombie &Kent Philanthropy, Health for All EV, Uganda Wildlife Authority, Diocese of Kinkiizi, Rotary International, Azimuth World International, the Ludwig Family, Mcauley Foundation, dedicated health care providers and the community.

Ms. Laura Corely, the Executive Director, The Kellermann Foundation, appreciated the work that has been done in the 20 years. “ What was once an empty field is now an awrd winning 155-bed hospital with satellite campuses throughout the region. Morethan a collection of buildings, BCH is more so the people who devote their lives day-by-day to reduce human suffering. More than a place of healing, the team at Bwindi Community Hospital nurtures life in all its fulness with great love,” she added.

Dr. Ben Mbonye, the Chair, Board of Governors, challenged all stakeholders to look ahead: “Bwindi Community Hospital must continue to adapt and evolve to meet the changing healthcare needs of its community. Enhancing technology, expanding services, and investing in capacity building should be crucial to ensure the hospital remains at the forefront of healthcare provison in the region.”

Founded in 2003 by Dr. Scott Kellermann, a California-based physician and missionary specializing in tropical medicine, Bwindi Community Hospital has been abeacon of hope for the people of Bwindi most especially the Batwa, and its surrounding areas. From under a tree, the hospital has grown to becoma a vital lifeline for those in need of medical attention. The unwavering commitment of the hospital staff, volunteers, and supporters has been instrumental in shaping Bwindi Community Hospital into a Center of Excellence in healthcare delivery.

In 2004, Dr. Scott Kellermann and his wife Carol founded the Kellermann Foundation, a US-based Charity organisation dedicated to supporting and providing high-quality healthcare to the Batwa and their neighbours in southwest Uganda. The 20th anniversary of Bwindi Community Hospital marks not only a celebration of past achievements but also a re affirmation of her vision and future.