By Boris Esono Nwenfor & Ngunyi Sionita Nwohtazie
LEBIALEM, PAV – Inhabitants of Fontem and neighbouring communities in Lebialem Division are receiving much-needed specialised medical care through a three-day free health campaign currently underway at Mary Health of Africa Hospital.
The initiative, organised by LECUDO-USA in collaboration with Mary Health of Africa Hospital and several partners, began on Wednesday, March 11, and will run until Friday, March 13. The outreach is expected to benefit more than 1,500 patients by providing services that are often difficult to access in rural communities.
The campaign seeks to address healthcare gaps in Lebialem, where many inhabitants face challenges accessing specialised treatment. Limited medical infrastructure and the long distances to major urban hospitals frequently prevent inhabitants from obtaining timely care for conditions affecting their eyesight, dental health, or mental well-being.
During the three-day outreach, teams of doctors, nurses and other health professionals are offering free eye examinations, dental consultations, mental health support and surgical procedures. The services are aimed at diagnosing and treating illnesses that might otherwise go unattended due to financial constraints or lack of available specialists.
Comprehensive free healthcare services
On the opening day, dozens of inhabitants gathered at the hospital in search of medical attention. Health workers began receiving patients, conducting consultations, screening for various conditions and preparing cases that may require further treatment or surgery.
Eye care services have been among the most sought-after during the campaign, as many inhabitants have long struggled with untreated vision problems. Medical teams are carrying out screenings and providing treatment to help detect and manage conditions that could affect sight.
Dental services are also being provided to address common oral health issues such as tooth decay and gum infections. For the patients, the campaign offers a rare opportunity to consult trained dental professionals without having to travel outside the division.
Beyond physical health services, the outreach is also emphasising mental health. Specialists are offering consultations to individuals dealing with stress, trauma and other psychological challenges, reflecting growing awareness of the importance of mental wellbeing in overall health.
A Cherished Project
Speaking to Pan African Visions, the Chief Executive Officer of LECUDO-USA, Ben Fuaminka, said the initiative provides a wide range of services free of charge to anyone who attends. “The package that we have this year includes free laboratory tests, free medical checkups starting from assessment, free consultations, free surgery, free cancer screening, as well as blood pressure and diabetes screening. Everything is free,” he said. “Anyone suffering from malaria, typhoid, hypertension, diabetes or requiring surgery will receive care at no cost.”
Fuaminka noted that the services are not limited to the local population alone. According to him, anyone who can reach the campaign, including people from neighbouring areas and even neighbouring countries, can benefit from the services.
He also highlighted the contributions of partners who have supported the initiative for several years, including Mary Health of Africa Hospital, the Focolare Movement, Ntecka Lab, Healing Beyond the Horizon, Life Bridge International and the Cameroon Oncology Centre.
According to the CEO of LECUDO-USA, the health campaign has become a cherished project for members of the diaspora who are committed to improving the well-being of communities back home.
The traditional ruler of Fontem, HRM Fon Asabaton Fontem , also praised the initiative, describing it as an important act of giving back to the community. “Health is wealth,” the traditional leader said. “This campaign shows love to the community and helps treat our fathers and mothers who remained here despite the challenges.”
He noted that since the beginning of the socio-political crisis in the region, access to health facilities has declined, making initiatives such as the medical outreach even more important. The ruler also commended the improvements made in the campaign over the years, including the availability of more equipment, volunteers and medication for patients.
“This year I have seen more machines in the dentistry and ophthalmology departments, more volunteers and a large stock of medication. Every year, they continue to improve the services they bring to our people,” he said.
The free medical campaign reflects the commitment of LECUDO-USA and its partners to supporting the health needs of communities in Lebialem Division. By bringing medical professionals and equipment directly to Fontem, the initiative is helping reduce barriers that often prevent inhabitants from accessing quality healthcare.
