In a move to increase general welfare and health awareness of the public, a 10- day medical camp has been organised in Jinja next month. The Nation Media Group in partnership with Southern Range Nyanza and Picfare industries has organised the free medical Camp targeting between 15,000 to 20,000 people.

Health Minister Stephen Mallinga will officially open the medical camp on Monday and it will run until August 12 under the theme; "Healthy population for a productive nation".

Addressing the media in Kampala yesterday, Mr Richard Mubiru, the corporate affairs manager of Picfare Industries, said the camp is aimed at promoting good health within the population.

"During the camp general medical conditions will be handled like malaria, tuberculosis, diabetes, hypertension, eye ailments as well as dental cases. And cases that will need surgery will be referred to Jinja Referral Hospital," Mr Mubiru said. Other problems to be dealt with include gynecological and paediatric issues as well as free counselling and testing of HIV.

He said the camp will be facilitated by volunteer doctors and medical experts from Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America and India working jointly with the local medical team.

According to Mr Mubiru, over 12,000 patients were treated last year. He said they expect a big turn up of about 15,000-20,000 people. The company's Logistics Manager, Mr William Okello, said all services at the camp including giving out eye glasses will be free.