In partnership with international and local medical experts, Lymphedema Warriors Association Uganda (LWAU) organized a series of medical and surgical camps aimed at tackling lymphedema and other neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affecting communities across Uganda.

The results and insights from these camps have been published by Wounds International, highlighting both the achievements and the urgent need for sustainable care systems in the region.

About the Camps

The camps took place between 3rd and 20th September 2024 at Bugema University Hospital (Central Uganda) and Rukunyu Hospital, Kamwenge District (Western Uganda).

Over the two weeks, 376 patients were reached — 163 at Bugema and 213 at Kamwenge — making this one of the largest lymphedema-focused interventions ever held in the country.

Services provided included:

• Surgical interventions for advanced lymphedema cases
• Rehabilitation through compression therapy and exercise
• Manual lymphatic drainage and skincare sessions
• Health education and self-care demonstrations
• Free provision of compression materials and skincare products

These camps not only delivered life-changing treatment but also restored dignity for people living with long-neglected conditions.

Key Insights

• Gender: 74% of participants were women, revealing both the higher disease burden among women and their active engagement in seeking care.
• Age: The majority of patients were over 35 years old, though younger patients (11–35 years) were also represented.
• Challenges:
  • Limited follow-up systems post-camp
  • Gaps in specialized equipment and training
  • Transportation and coordination difficulties in rural areas

Despite these challenges, the camps showcased what collaboration, compassion, and community leadership can achieve.

Why This Matters

Lymphedema, elephantiasis, and podoconiosis remain under-recognized and under-treated across Uganda and East Africa.
These conditions not only cause physical disability but also deep emotional and social stigma.

By combining medical care, education, and advocacy, LWAU and its partners are helping patients regain hope — and drawing national attention to these neglected diseases.

The Road Ahead

The report emphasizes the importance of sustainability and local capacity building:

• Extend the duration and reach of medical camps
• Establish regional rehabilitation centers for ongoing care
• Train more local healthcare professionals in lymphedema management
• Strengthen partnerships with government and international bodies

LWAU is already working toward the creation of Uganda’s first Lymphedema Rehabilitation Centre — a permanent home for treatment, training, and research.

How You Can Support

You can help continue this impact by:

• Donating to support rehabilitation center development and future camps
• Partnering with us on upcoming NTD interventions
• Sharing awareness to make lymphedema visible and understood

Together, we can make Uganda a regional model for lymphedema and NTD care.

Read the full publication:
Wounds International Journal Article

On 15th and 16th August 2025, the Lymphedema Warriors Association Uganda (LWAU) successfully held a free medical camp at Rehab Clinic, Naalya, dedicated to creating awareness, providing care, and supporting patients living with lymphedema and related conditions.

This important milestone would not have been possible without the generous support of our partners, particularly the Rotary Club of Namugongo.

The Rotary Club’s contribution went beyond financial assistance it represented solidarity and compassion towards a community that is often overlooked. Their support helped us provide medical assessments, distribute essential supplies, and educate both patients and caregivers on better management of lymphedema.

For many participants, this was the first time lymphedema was openly discussed in a public medical setting, giving them hope and confidence that they are not alone in this fight.

At LWAU, we believe that the journey to awareness, treatment, and advocacy for people affected by lymphedema is not an easy one. But with partners like the Rotary Club of Namugongo walking alongside us, we are certain that together, we can reach further, create impact, and change lives.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the Rotary family for joining us in this mission.
Your support is a beacon of hope, and we look forward to continued collaboration in empowering lymphedema warriors across Uganda.

Together, we rise. Together, we fight. Together, we win.

Strengthening Lymphatic Health Across Africa

We are thrilled to announce that Kerelous George Estfanous has officially joined the Lymphedema Warriors Association Uganda (LWAU) as our Medical Consultant and International Advisor.

Kerelous brings with him a wealth of experience as a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, Physical Therapist, Author, International Lecturer, and Founder of the International Lymphedema Centers (ILC). His voluntary appointment is a significant step forward for our work as we continue to raise awareness and improve care for people living with lymphedema and other lymphatic conditions in Uganda and across Africa.

“As someone with Egyptian roots, I’m honored to give back to the continent I call home. This collaboration is about more than sharing knowledge it’s about working together, learning from each other, and creating meaningful impact,” says Kerelous.

With his support and expertise, this partnership will help LWAU to:

• Develop personalized and conservative treatment protocols
• Provide training and mentorship for upcoming healthcare professionals
• Expand public awareness and educational outreach
• Create lasting change in communities most affected by lymphedema

We are incredibly grateful to Kerelous for joining hands with us and believing in our mission. His presence strengthens our commitment to building a more inclusive, informed, and empowered lymphatic care movement across the continent.

Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Kerelous George Estfanous together, we are stronger!

#LWAU #LymphedemaUganda #LymphaticHealth #GlobalPartnership #ILC #UnitedForAfrica

We’re thrilled to celebrate Kushaba Lawin, founder of Lymphedema Warriors Association Uganda, on her appointment as Chair of the LE&RN Uganda Chapter!

Her tireless advocacy, personal strength, and unwavering commitment to empowering people living with lymphedema in Uganda and beyond continue to inspire us all.

This is a huge milestone not only for her, but for the entire lymphedema community in Uganda. We are excited for all the progress ahead under her leadership!

Lymphedema is an underrecognized condition affecting millions globally, with Africa facing unique challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and management. In September, the Lymphedema Warriors Association Uganda (LWAU), in collaboration with Bugema Hospital, Rural Health Promotion and Poverty Alleviation Initiative and other dedicated partners, organized a pivotal medical camp in Uganda. This camp aimed to bridge gaps in treatment and support for lymphedema patients across the country, offering both relief and empowerment to those impacted.

Understanding Lymphedema in Africa Lymphedema often develops as a result of infections, injuries, or surgical procedures, but in some parts of Africa, it is aggravated by environmental factors like volcanic soil and limited healthcare access. The Bugema medical camp sought to address these unique challenges while providing life changing interventions for the local communities.

The Bugema Medical Camp: A Community Initiative With the support of Bugema Hospital, Rural Health Promotion and Poverty Alleviation Initiative, and volunteers from various health sectors, the medical camp provided screenings, consultations, and essential treatments. Many patients received supplies like compression bandages and skin care products crucial for managing lymphedema effectively.

Training for Self-Management: Empowering Communities Across Africa A critical component of the Bugema camp was educating patients and caregivers on self-management techniques. we emphasized the importance of routine care, manual lymph drainage, and the usage of compression garments. These skills allow patients to take control of their health, an essential part of combating lymphedema in Africa, where healthcare resources may be limited.

Partnering for a Better Future in Lymphedema Care Across Africa The Bugema medical camp exemplifies the potential for collaborative efforts to make a lasting impact on lymphedema awareness and care. By joining forces with local organizations, international experts, and dedicated volunteers, we’re one step closer to ensuring that people across Africa have access to the support and resources they need.

Conclusion The Bugema medical camp was more than a healthcare event; it was a beacon of hope, resilience, and community strength. As we continue to address lymphedema in Africa, the stories and successes from Bugema remind us of the importance of accessible, community driven healthcare. Together, we are paving the way toward a future where lymphedema patients throughout Africa have the support and knowledge to live fulfilling lives.