Amolatar RDC calls for joint action against rising sickle cell cases

9 September 2026, 6:54 pm

By Baker Okello

The Resident District Commissioner of Amolatar District, Francis Okello Odoki Rwotlonyo, has called on stakeholders to join efforts to tackle the rising burden of sickle cell disease in the district.

Okello said health facilities in Amolatar are struggling to manage hundreds of people living with the condition, placing additional pressure on the district’s already constrained healthcare system.

Speaking to our reporter, Okello urged stakeholders, health authorities and the Ministry of Health to work together to address sickle cell disease by strengthening the identification of its genetic causes and implementing coordinated prevention, diagnosis and care strategies.

He called on the Ministry of Health to provide clear guidance and strengthen interventions aimed at reducing the impact of the disease on the most affected communities.

The RDC also emphasised the need to expand local healthcare services, improve the availability of essential medicines and intensify community sensitisation, particularly in high-risk areas.

Meanwhile, Amolatar District Health Officer, Dr Jimmy Odongo, confirmed that Amolatar Hospital is currently managing 983 people living with sickle cell disease.

Health officials said many families affected by the condition are forced to travel long distances to Lira Regional Referral Hospital for proper diagnosis and specialised care.

According to the officials, Lira Regional Referral Hospital is handling a substantial sickle cell caseload, with more than 1,000 patients reportedly seeking services there each week.

The district leadership said strengthening local diagnostic and treatment services, alongside increased community awareness, will be critical to reducing the burden of sickle cell disease and easing pressure on referral facilities.