Biker News

Last month, we put out a fundraising request for a dedicated boda (motorcycle) for The Rock. With incredible biker-like speed, the donations came zooming in over the next few weeks ...

Having a boda specifically for The Rock to use with its innovative ambulance will ensure that emergency cases can be quickly referred to larger health centres & hospitals either in Luwero - about 10km away or in Bombo, 25 km away. Musawo (Dr) Sam will be one of the designated drivers. The Rock also contributed part of the costs, the staff themselves having raised the need for the boda over the last few months. 

The boda-ambulance will literally be a lifesaving move for emergency cases such as women with labour complications, road accidents/severe burns/broken bones, deteriorating malaria cases etc. Within 24 hours of arrival, the new boda was put to use to take a young patient quickly to Luwero.

There is no 999 service in Uganda; private ambulances are way beyond the financial reach of most individuals. It is not uncommon to hear of parents/guardians refusing further treatment for a child on the grounds that they simply can't afford it - in that case the child is taken home to wait for the outcome, whatever that may be. Previously, a woman in advanced labour might well be stuck onto the back of a bicycle or sit on a motorbike to travel. Precarious, dangerous and unbearably uncomfortable. 

So a huge thank you to everyone who donated and messaged us about the boda - many of you with medical backgrounds. In the current climate, fundraising and asking for money is definitely more challenging, so we are particularly grateful for everyone who made it so straightforward - and relatively painless!