-Project championed by President Biya through MINSANTE
By Engah Peter Parkers
Over 3,500 individuals have received free consultations and surgeries at Regional Hospital Limbe, highlighting the power of government-led health initiatives in bridging the healthcare gap in the country.
In a landmark initiative underscoring its commitment to public health, the Cameroonian government, led by President Paul Biya, has successfully wrapped up a free medical consultation and treatment campaign at the Regional Hospital Limbe. This transformative event, which took place from September 22 to 24, saw over 3,500 individuals in and around Limbe benefit from essential health services that typically remain out of reach for many due to financial constraints.
Under the banner, “Action for Better Health for the Population of South West Region,” coordinated by Public Health Minister, Dr Manaouda Malachi, this campaign sought to address pressing health issues within local communities. It particularly focused on individuals requiring surgical interventions but unable to afford necessary treatments. The initiative was implemented simultaneously across three regional hospitals: Limbe, Buea, and Kumba, amplifying its reach and impact.
A wide range of services
The campaign offered an extensive array of medical services for various health conditions, including:
-Cataracts and eye issues (Over 500 patients received free eye surgeries).
-Malaria treatment (Thousands benefited from complimentary medication and treatment).
-Tuberculosis care (Health workers conducted free screenings and provided necessary treatments).
-Hypertension management (Patients were offered free blood pressure checks and medications).
-General cconsultations (Individuals received comprehensive consultations for various ailments).
-Dental care (Free dental procedures, including extractions and fillings, were also provided).
A resounding success
According to Dr. Arreneke Nyenti, Director of Regional Hospital Limbe, the success of the initiative has been remarkable. He mentioned that during the three-day campaign, patient attendance nearly doubled compared to typical monthly figures. “You don’t compare an ocean to a river,” he remarked, alluding to the unprecedented turnout.
During the campaign, CPDM youths of Mile one donated some mineral water to the staff of the hospital.
By the close of the campaign, Dr. Nyenti estimated that approximately 3,500 patients were treated, an astounding figure according to him, when compared to their usual monthly intake of around 2,000 to 2,500 patients. The Director emphasised that this significant increase reflects a critical public health need in the community. “A lot of people have problems in the community because they don’t have the means,” he explained.
Gratitude from the community
In appreciation of this successful initiative and its far-reaching benefits, Fako Senior Divisional Officer, Engelbert Viang Mekala expressed heartfelt thanks on behalf of the Fako population. “The population of Fako Division is very satisfied,” Mekala stated. “Those who were sick and didn’t have the means for proper healthcare have indeed benefitted from this free treatment campaign.”
