Uganda: In the foothills of Mount Elgin

We had a wonderful day today, working and playing and meeting children and adults.

We were about 1 1/2 hours outside of Mbale, in the foothills of Mount Elgin, high up above the plains of eastern Uganda. Many of the people in this community had been displaced because of tribal conflict on the plains and had settled in the hills for safety. We also were very upset and saddened to hear that this region practices female circumcision although there is an education program in place to help eradicate this ritual.

On our way home we stopped at Sipi falls and a hospital which treats children with hydrocephalis. We learned that Uganda has one of the highest rates of hydrocephalis and this hospital alone treats 2,000 cases a year. Although heartbreaking to see these sick children, it seemed like an excellent facility where they were being treated.

Tomorrow is our long day - 1,000 children will receive bedkits at two sites.

We are looking forward to it!

Debbie Will-Dryden
for the SCAW 2008 Uganda travelling team

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