Lira | Geoffrey Okwir Gunya, a 60-year-old Lango cultural leader and prominent businessman, has expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the Ugandan government for their commitment to improving healthcare services, particularly the fight against cancer.
Gunya, who recently returned from India after receiving treatment for stomach appendix cancer, spoke about his experience and gratitude during an interview on Monday, March 10, 2025, in Lira lira City.
The clan leader of Ober Owmon Lao Okwer Gum, revealed that he spent over shs64 million on his treatment after being diagnosed with cancer in August 2024. He was forced to seek advanced medical care in India, where he underwent extensive treatment for five months.
Despite the financial burden, he expressed relief and gratitude for the government’s recent initiative to offer free cancer treatment at Mulago National Referral Hospital.
“I am now better, with 60% recovery, after spending over shs64 million. However, I still need to return to India in May for further treatment, which will cost an additional shs92 million. This is a huge amount of money that many people cannot afford,” Gunya said.
“I am sincerely grateful to President Museveni and the Ministry of Health for introducing free cancer treatment services. This is a lifesaving initiative for many Ugandans.”
He emphasized the importance of early detection and regular health screenings, urging clan leaders and the general public to put their health first.
“Cancer is now the second leading cause of death in Africa, after malaria. I encourage everyone to avoid unhealthy habits such as eating pork, smoking cigarettes, and drinking alcohol. These behaviors increase the risk of cancer and other diseases. Let us follow doctors’ guidelines and take care of our bodies,” he advised.
He also commended Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, the Minister of Health and woman Member of Parliament for Lira City, for her efforts in advancing Uganda’s healthcare system.
“Dr. Aceng has played a significant role in improving health services in our country. I am now going for my review at Mulago National Referral Hospital, and I am confident in the quality of care provided,” he said.
Geoffrey Gunya highlighted the high cost of cancer treatment, noting that a single round of chemotherapy can cost over 7 million shillings. He expressed his appreciation for the government’s decision to make these services free for Ugandans.
“I have witnessed the high costs of cancer treatment both in Uganda and India. The government’s decision to provide free treatment is a blessing to many families, especially those in northern Uganda. I urge everyone to take advantage of the Uganda Cancer Institute in Gulu for screenings and treatment,” he added.
He urged Ugandans to stay vigilant about their health and seek medical attention at the first sign of illness. “Let us be alert to any kind of sickness that may come our way. I am now following my doctor’s guidelines strictly, and I encourage everyone to do the same. Together, we can fight cancer and other diseases.”
Gunya’s story is a testament to the challenges faced by many Ugandans in accessing affordable healthcare. His praise for President Museveni and the Ministry of Health underscores the importance of government initiatives in addressing critical health issues.
As Uganda continues to make strides in improving its healthcare system, stories like this for Gunya serve as a reminder of the impact these efforts have on the lives of ordinary citizens.
In 2022, Uganda had 35,968 new cancer cases and 24,629 cancer deaths. According to the Ministry of Health, the age standardised in incidence rate is 156.2 for males and 157.7 for females per 100,000.