Fontem, Cameroon — A five-day free medical campaign opened on 10 March at Mary Health of Africa Hospital in Nveh, Fontem, with 445 patients registered on the first day and 11 operations completed at no charge, according to local reports.
The Lebang Cultural and Development Organisation (LECUDO-USA) and the hospital jointly run the outreach, now in its fifth edition. Services offered include general consultations, X-ray scans, ultrasound, dental care and surgery.
Mothers who gave birth during the campaign told hospital staff the absence of fees had lifted a heavy burden.
One woman said she delivered a healthy boy within six hours of arrival; another said her son’s umbilical-hernia operation, postponed for months because of cost, was performed on the opening day.
A parent whose child arrived with high fever reported the child’s temperature had stabilised after treatment.
A returning patient stated that glaucoma surgery done during last year’s campaign had preserved his eyesight; he came back this year for a different ailment and praised organisers for follow-up care. Official statements indicate that nine major and two minor surgeries were completed on 10 March. Medication and checks were provided free of charge, and campaign organisers say services will continue through 14 March.
Local health staff credit the initiative with easing pressure on the district’s only referral hospital. Further details are expected once the campaign ends.
