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Internships in Kabale, Uganda

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2 Internships in Kabale, Uganda

International Medical Aid (IMA)
103 reviews

International Medical Aid (IMA)

Global Perspectives in Nutrition Placement/Dietetic with IMA

International Medical Aid (IMA) is a not-for-profit organization ...

Child Family Health International
8.58 reviews

Child Family Health International

Global Health in Kabale, Uganda

Become a part of the community in Kabale, a town located in south...

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Unearthing Abundance at Home

by: Emmanuel Phiri - ZambiaProgram: Global Health in Kabale, Uganda
9

As African students, we often overlook the incredible wealth of opportunities for growth and adventure right within our own continent. While we’re quick to associate study abroad experiences with Western nations, Africa is bursting with rich cultures and diverse communities just waiting to be explored! How often do we dare to venture beyond our national borders and immerse ourselves in the vibrant social, economic, and cultural tapestry of our neighboring countries? As a fifth-year medical student at the Copperbelt University School of Medicine in Zambia, I felt a profound drive to grasp global health through the lens of Africa. Despite living on this magnificent continent, I realized I knew very little about the intricate cultural nuances and healthcare systems that flourished in other African nations. This gap in knowledge ignited my passion for exploration, and that’s where Child Family Health International (CFHI) came into play, serving as the perfect launching pad for my journey. "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page." This quote by Saint Augustine echoed in my mind throughout my eye-opening experience with CFHI in Kabale, Uganda. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of immersing ourselves in different cultures and embracing unique healthcare systems. The program thrust me into a new culture, gifting me invaluable insights into the significance of intercultural communication and ethics in healthcare. My time at the Kigezi Healthcare Foundation (KIHEFO) clinics was particularly illuminating. Thanks to CFHI's thorough pre-departure courses, I gained essential knowledge that shaped my experience. As I reflect on my journey, the Africa CDC Public Health order comes to mind, emphasizing the need for unity in addressing our continent's health challenges. My interactions with CFHI reiterated the notion that understanding our individual and collective roots is vital to realizing the dream of a united Africa. The adventure began with a twist when I hilariously missed my flight with RwandaAir on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024, at 5 PM GMT+2. My plans to land in Kigali, Rwanda, to meet my local coordinators and head to Kabale, Uganda—a mere two-hour drive across the Gatuna border—had quickly turned chaotic due to unforeseen traffic jams. Anxious and late, I managed to rebook my flight (at a bit of a cost) and decided to spend the night at the airport, rather than face the pricey trip home. Fortunately, I embarked on my journey the next day, Sunday, at 4 PM GMT+2. Despite stormy weather causing some delays, we touched down in Kigali by 9:30 PM. Upon my arrival, I was warmly welcomed by my preceptors, Prosper Ainemukama and Praise, who, despite their tiredness, radiated kindness. By 1 AM, I found myself in Kabale, just minutes from the border, thanks to our skilled driver, Mr. Tony, who expertly navigated the thick fog. Morning broke, and I was greeted with a breakfast of bread and scrambled eggs that tasted like home. Everything around me felt foreign yet inviting, and the genuine warmth of the local people quickly enveloped me. I formed a special bond with my new neighbors in the apartments, particularly with the lovely Madam Bibiana who managed the kitchen and her husband Mr. Fred, alongside the cheerful Doreen, who took care of cleaning. They welcomed me like family. At 9 AM, I set off on a guided stroll around town with my preceptor Prosper, my heart brimming with enthusiasm and curiosity. Together, we explored the bustling KIHEFO clinic, engaged with the dedicated staff, and roamed through local markets filled with vibrant life. Every moment allowed me to soak in the lively spirit of Kabale—a small yet dynamic town where the “boda boda” motorcycles, a novel sight for me coming from Zambia, whizzed by as the primary mode of transport. For longer journeys, larger buses were ready to take travelers to the capital, Kampala, an eight-hour drive away. I fell head over heels for Kabale, captivated by its lush mountainous scenery and cool, refreshing climate. Truly, as the books say, it is the pearl of Africa—a shining gem that embodies the essence of Uganda. My regular visits to the clinic became a canvas for my skills, allowing me to engage in Diabetic Week, where I screened, counseled, and raised awareness about diabetes among community members while honing my communication skills, cultural humility, and competence. My first week was a whirlwind of introductions to the local environment and KIHEFO’s invaluable activities. One standout moment was a 32-kilometer drive along the Mbarara road to participate in a mobile HIV/AIDS clinic. This hands-on outreach experience grounded me in the power of community engagement, as I witnessed locals come together for essential care. Distributing ART drugs and providing necessary counseling alongside the team, particularly Dr. Brighton—the sole licensed physician—filled my heart with fulfillment. His impactful insights during our brief conversations sparked an even greater passion for global health and our collective ability to effect change. Engaging with the local community through mobile clinic outreach was undoubtedly one of the most rewarding highlights of my journey. Traveling beyond the town to meet patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) offered me a new lens to view how we could enhance follow-up care and amplify peer support. One particularly heartwarming moment was when community members rallied around a colleague who had stopped taking their medication, beautifully illustrating the profound impact of peer encouragement. I also dove into learning about the local language and culture, which allowed me to forge genuine connections with community members through shared laughter and meaningful interactions. Conversations with Dr. Geoffrey Anguyo, KIHEFO’S founder and Executive Director, expanded my understanding of Uganda's health system, delving into maternal and child health and the challenges of malnutrition. I was particularly captivated by the 'Rabbit Project,' a visionary initiative aimed at combating malnutrition by providing both a source of food and an avenue for income. Visiting the rabbit-rearing sites was a true eye-opener, showcasing their innovative approach to sustainable living. My final week in Kabale took me to the indigenous Batwa community, whose story of displacement, marginalization, and immense resilience left a lasting impression on me. Forcibly moved from their ancestral lands to make way for national parks, the Batwa faced daunting challenges, grappling with the loss of their skills and resources to navigate this new reality. Witnessing their strength and determination was a profoundly moving experience. Of course, living and working in a foreign environment came with its share of hurdles. I encountered language barriers, embraced cultural differences, and faced moments of uncertainty. Yet, it was precisely in these challenges that I unearthed invaluable lessons in humility, adaptability, and personal resilience. Initially, I was enthusiastic about the prospect of sharing this experience with fellow students, but when I learned I’d be embarking on this journey alone, I felt a wave of apprehension. My expectations of fun and camaraderie dimmed momentarily, but I soon realized that this individual experience would be rich in its own right. I also anticipated that the lifestyle and healthcare system in Uganda would mirror those of Zambia, given our shared African heritage. To my delight, I discovered distinct cultural nuances and approaches that left me pleasantly astonished and forever changed. Reflecting on my time in Kabale, I can’t help but appreciate the power of immersion and experiential learning. This journey transcended the acquisition of new skills or knowledge; it was a voyage of self-discovery, revealing my strengths, weaknesses, and passions. Kabale has imprinted itself on my heart, and I will carry the lessons and memories from this incredible experience for a lifetime. For anyone considering a global health experience, I wholeheartedly recommend Kabale as your top choice. Immerse yourself in the remarkable work being done by the team at KIHEFO, and embrace the adventure with an open mind, flexibility, and a willingness to take risks. Don't shy away from the unknown or fear making mistakes. Kabale is a treasure trove of beauty, warmth, and resilience—prepare to fall in love with this enchanting town and its extraordinary people!

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