HEALTH: The Masaka Diocesan Medical Services (MDMS) on Saturday July 22nd 2023, celebrated 10years of distributing pharmaceutical supplies in greater Masaka region
The celebration which was hosted at the Masaka Caritas Maddo headquarters Kitovu which also houses the Diocesan medical services attracted a number of medical workers in the region, stake holders like Joint medical stores (JMS), Uganda Catholic Medical Bureau (UCMB), the clergy and members of the public
Rev. Fr. Raphael Ssemmanda, the Director Caritas Maddo and the day’s main celebrant said the Masaka Diocesan medical services had a reason to celebrate the 10th Anniversary because of the transformation seen at the facility
“The formerly bushy area now has buildings. The facility has saved thousands of lives by providing medicines and advice not forgetting the Covid period where I was also saved from the pandemic.” Fr. Ssemmanda said.
Fr. Raphael Ssemmanda added that they have also fulfilled their prophetic mission and they also had to thank God for the good Directors who have developed the diocesan medical store.
Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Katabaazi, the Director Masaka Medical Services commended the Joint medical stores, the Uganda Catholic Medical bureau and all stakeholders for the support during the 10 years of medical service.
“I can’t forget to commend the Late Bishop John Baptist Kaggwa, Msgr. Kato Ssempungu (RIP) and the entire Diocese of Masaka for their efforts in the establishment of this medical project. Our Knowledgeable and hardworking staff for their commitment to the development of the pharmacy,” Fr. Katabaazi said.
Hon. Mathias Mpuuga, the Leader of Opposition who also graced the celebration praised the Uganda Episcopal Conference for establishing the Joint Medical stores which partners with the Masaka Diocesan Medical services for bridging the gap in the country’s medical services
“Uganda still lacks an effort in distributing medicine in Health facilities; I directed my team to investigate the National Medical stores (NMS) on how they distribute drugs in Uganda.
Mpuuga also tasked the Joint Medical Stores to invest in pharmaceutical research to domesticate the medical demand in the country. He commended the Catholic Church for establishing a number of health facilities which are performing better than the public health centers.
Hon. Francis Katabaazi, the Kalungu East Legislator also applauded the Diocese of Masaka for her efforts in supporting regional medical services.
He tasked the government of Uganda to borrow a leaf from the Catholic Church in rendering medical services in the country and also commended JMS for the endless support.
Masaka Diocesan Medical Services Ltd is a registered company limited by guarantee and not having share capital. It was incorporated under cap 110 of the law of Uganda, on 15th March 2013, Certificate No. 164227.
The Company which has undertaken the task to be the Distributer of JMS in the Greater Masaka region involves in storage and sale of products, including pharmaceuticals, medical and surgical sundries, equipment and instrument as well as laboratory supplies.
Masaka Diocesan Medical Services Ltd distributes pharmaceutical supplies exclusively from JMS assured of their quality, safety and availability at all times to her consumers. MDMSL also supplies these products to Government health facilities, PNFPs, Private for Profit health facilities, NGOs and well as pharmacies and drug shops within Greater Masaka.
The operations officially started on the 22nd of July 2013 after receiving the first consignment from JMS on 20th July 2013. The rationale for the creation of this company was service delivery, not profits with a vision of uplifting Masaka Diocese with health institutions that meets all health needs of the population without any discrimination and a Mission to provide sustainable quality health services in continuation of Christ’s healing Ministry through strategic partnerships”
PHOTOS: By Rev. Fr. Ronald Mayanja, Director of Communications Masaka Diocese
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