Like education, health care is a prime focus of Lift Up Uganda. Our goal is and has been to improve the primary and emergency medical care in the Akonyibedo Village and the surrounding communities of Gulu. The St. Nektarios Health Center was built to address these needs. Lift Up Uganda partnered with the St Philip the Apostle Orthodox Church in Florida. Since walking is the primary mode of transportation for most Ugandans living in this area, having accessible medical care near their villages is essential and lifesaving.

St. Nektarios Health Center

The St. Nektarios Health Center is a certified level III facility, which means it can provide more advanced care and maternity services. The Health Center provides all the people in the Akonyibedo Village and surrounding areas with primary care, emergency care, and maternity care. Since the Center is a certified hospital it acts as both an outpatient and inpatient facility which is open seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day.

History of the Health Center

"What do your people need most?"

Sue Nelson, president Lift Up uganda

On Sue's first Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) medical mission she asked Fr. George the host priest, what do your people need most. Little did she know where his answer would eventually take her. Fr. George told her his vision was to have a clean and safe facility where mothers could birth their babies. Neonatal and maternal deaths are a major health problem for all of Uganda and Fr. George was hoping to reduce the risks.

It was to be. 

Fr. George committed his ideas to written plans and soon after Dr. Peter purchased four acres of land for the project.

Fr. Joseph of St. Philip Apostle Orthodox Church in Florida joined the team and he and Sue became a fundraising juggernaut.

Fr. Joseph and his Parish provided the funds for construction and Sue and her Parish provided the funds for medical supplies, equipment furniture, and all other materials needed for day-to-day operations.

The St. Nektarios Health Center was destined to be built and it was.

Soon after opening the Health Center a water well, solar power, a solar refrigerator, and most importantly a maternity wing was added.

An ultrasound machine was purchased in 2018 and training was provided by the radiologist at the Gulu Hospital. A baby warmer was also purchased.

In 2020, a four-plex staff headquarters was built to accommodate two doctors and two nurse-midwives. Now, care is available twenty-fours hours a day with staff on site.

Sue raised funds for a motorcycle ambulance so faster transportation to the Health Center or a hospital for advanced care was available. Later, fundraising efforts were made to purchase and refurbish a van to be certified as a vehicle ambulance.

Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria Blesses the St. Nektarios Health Center.

The St. Nektarios Health Center will continue to grow and thrive. 

    Maternity Ward
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      The maternity ward at the St. Nektarios Health Center welcomes babies into the world.

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      Ambulance

      Before there was an ambulance, the Health Center used a motorcycle to transport patients. Supporters came together to fundraise for a motorcycle ambulance for the St. Nektarios Health Center. Unfortunately, the ambulance manufacturer closed permanently in early 2021. Fulfilling the request and dream of Fr. George, the Health Center staff, and the community, LUU was able to purchase a van. This van was converted to an ambulance and equipped with materials needed to transport patients.

      This ambulance:

      • Will provide immediate service for Mothers and Babies who develop unexpected complications during delivery to be transferred to Gulu hospitals.
      • Will make emergent medical transport for any patients needing hospitalization and advanced care.
      • Will provide the ability to provide transportation to and from the St Nektarios Health Center for patients from surrounding villages.
      • Has met all Ministry of Health requirements and licensure

      Without your continued support, this ambulance would not have been possible.

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        Village Outreach

        Even with a full-service Health Center, outreach to remote villages is still done on a regular basis.

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        Lift Up Uganda will continue to support and expand its commitment to health care. Promoting health care prevents illnesses and encourages wellness, helping communities thrive. To support the healthcare efforts of Lift Up Uganda, see how you can give.