Common issues we face.

In Uganda, thousands of children in rural communities can’t get medical care. Many treatable conditions—like hernia, tumours, burns and cleft lip and palate—go untreated because families can’t afford surgery or get to a hospital in time.

At Humanity Direct we fund medical care and surgeries for children in need, so they get urgent medical care without financial barriers. But delivering healthcare in rural Uganda is not easy.

1. Limited Access to Hospitals and Surgical Centres

Many areas of Uganda have no medical facilities so families have to travel long distances for treatment. Some children have to travel for hours or even days to get to a hospital which can delay urgent surgery.

2. Shortage of Medical Professionals

Uganda has a severe shortage of doctors and surgeons especially in rural areas. Many hospitals have minimal staff so patients face long waiting times for surgery. Humanity Direct works with trusted surgeons to get children operated on in time.

3. Poor Transport and Infrastructure

Many rural villages in Uganda have no roads and transport so families can’t get to hospitals for the urgent medical care they so desperately need. During the rainy season the roads flood or can become impassable and treatment is delayed even further.

4. Cost of Surgery and Medical Care

For many Ugandan families the cost of surgery is beyond their means. Some parents have to choose between paying for medical treatment or buying food. By fully funding surgeries Humanity Direct ensures no child is denied care because of poverty.

5. Lack of Medical Equipment and Supplies

Hospitals in rural Uganda often lack basic surgical equipment, anaesthesia and post-operative care supplies. This makes it harder for doctors to perform routine procedures safely. Donations help equip hospitals with essential medical resources so more children can be treated.

6. Limited Awareness About Treatable Conditions

Some families in Uganda don’t seek medical care because of lack of awareness, societal stigmas, fear of surgery or traditional medicine.

How Humanity Direct Overcomes These Challenges

• Removing Financial Barriers – By fully funding life-changing surgeries we ensure families don’t have to choose between medical care and other necessities.
• Support Hospitals with Resources – Our funding provides medical supplies and post-operative care.
• Raise Awareness – We work with local communities to get more children timely medical intervention.

To learn more about how we work, head over to our ‘how we work’ page for more information.