Rising Limb Loss Cases Spark Urgent Call For Rehabilitation Support in Uganda: Ruparelia Foundation Restores Hope With Prosthetic Donations at Mulago. Accident Survivors Take First Steps Towa
Uganda is witnessing a worrying rise in limb loss cases largely linked to road accidents, with health experts warning of a growing burden of long-term disability and an urgent need for expanded rehabilitation services.
According to recent reports, a significant number of Ugandans continue to suffer severe injuries from road accidents, many of which result in amputations and permanent disabilities.
Officials from the Ministry of Health Uganda say the trend is increasingly alarming, placing pressure on healthcare systems and rehabilitation services.
At Mulago National Referral Hospital, a special ceremony was held to donate prosthetic limbs to survivors of road accidents, offering a new lease of life to dozens of beneficiaries drawn from districts including Kamuli and beyond.
The prosthetic limbs were donated by the Ruparelia Foundation, led by businessman Sudhir Ruparelia and his family, as part of ongoing efforts to support vulnerable communities.
The initiative was carried out in memory of their late son, Rajiv Ruparelia, who died in a tragic accident.
Family representative Joystan Ruparelia said the donation reflects Rajiv’s passion for helping the underprivileged and aims to continue his legacy of compassion and community support.
Recipients of the prosthetic limbs expressed gratitude, with many taking their first steps toward regaining mobility, dignity, and independence after months or years of hardship.
Rosemary Byanyima, Executive Director of Mulago Hospital, applauded the partnership with the Ruparelia Foundation, noting that such interventions significantly boost the hospital’s capacity to deliver specialised care.
She emphasised the need for continued collaboration to address the growing demand for rehabilitation services as cases of trauma-related disabilities continue to rise.
As Uganda grapples with increasing accident-related injuries, experts say sustained investment in rehabilitation, assistive technologies, and prevention measures will be critical in restoring hope and improving the quality of life for affected individuals.
