By Mutayoba Arbogast
In a remarkable display of community solidarity, over Sh 2.5 million has been raised by members of the WhatsApp group "Missenyi na Maendeleo" to support the medical treatment of two-year-old Betson Mujuni, who suffers from a severe and recurring eye condition.
Betson has now been discharged after receiving treatment at Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) and Ocean Road Hospital, though he continues to need medical support.
Missenyi District Council Executive Director, John Paul Wanga, responded immediately upon learning about Betson’s condition, mobilizing the Health and Social Welfare departments to arrange emergency transport to Bukoba Regional Referral Hospital.
The child, from a low-income family in Kitobo village, Kiziba Division, had previously undergone surgery at MNH in July 2024, funded by the sale of family land.
However, the swelling returned just two weeks after his initial discharge, leaving his family unable to afford further treatment.
The effort to raise funds for Betson’s care received crucial support from Nkenge Member of Parliament Florent Kyombo, the District Commissioner, the District Executive Director (DED), and other stakeholders.
Steven Ndyakowa, Secretary to MP Kyombo, noted that their office played a pivotal role in coordinating and encouraging contributions, which went directly to the family.
Respicius John, the administrator of Missenyi na Maendeleo and coordinator of the fundraising drive, reported that Sh1 million from the DED’s office covered transport costs for Betson and his mother to reach MNH, as well as other essential expenses.
Additional funds helped secure National Health Insurance Fund coverage, transportation to Ocean Road Hospital for further treatment, and necessities such as food. The community also provided solar panels to bring light to the family home.
“The boy is back home now and doing better, though he still requires significant financial support for ongoing care,” John explained.
DED John Paul Wanga expressed deep gratitude for the community's outpouring of support: "I am very grateful to the people of Missenyi for your dedication to helping those in need. May Allah bless you all abundantly."
Betson's mother, Flaviana Kokugonza Felician, and her husband extended their heartfelt thanks to the group and all contributors. “Without your help, we would have lost him long ago. You have given our child a second chance at life, and for that, may God bless each one of you.”
One group member praised the shift in focus from political discussions or condolence contributions to proactive social support: “May God help us continue to give each other a reason to smile while we are alive, rather than only gathering for the dead.” The success of this community-driven initiative underscores the power of collective action to address urgent healthcare needs and improve lives.