The medical profession is one of those that hold a special place in society, not least because it is often our last line of defence for the irreplaceable asset of life.
So, the death last week of one of our leading doctors in an Indian hospital touched many Ugandans. We pay tribute to Dr Margaret Mungherera – hailed by professional colleagues as a doctor par excellence.
We celebrate her for the passion with which she served, the dedication she brought to her calling, the distinction with which she did her work. Dr Mungherera, 59, died from cancer last Saturday, which was World Cancer day, a day to bring focus on the globe’s escalating cancer burden.
Always down to earth and enthusiastic in her advocacy for the rights of patients and health workers, Mungherera stood out as a resolute voice for good. By adding voice to a practice that scarcely speaks out, Mungherera, in a unique way, was a constant reminder of the critical role of medical professionals in our society.
Mungherera was one of the founders of the Association of Uganda Women Doctors. She was the first woman to head the Uganda Medical Association as well as its longest-serving president.
In 2012 in Bangkok, Thailand, Dr Mungherera became only the third woman and only the second African to be elected president of the World Medical Association, which is 70 years old this year.
Speaking to The Observer later, Mungherera recalled her humiliation when, in 1984, she was stopped from practicing medicine in the United Kingdom, because of the suspect quality of Ugandan doctors then.
Her election to head WMA, she said, was recognition for all Ugandan doctors. The principal medical officer in charge of mental health at the ministry of health, Dr Sheila Ndyanabangi, had this to say about Mungherera’s election as WMA boss.
“She is a charismatic person, self-mover, outspoken, interactive and one of the few emancipated women in Uganda. She has fought for the medical profession and the rights for women, men, children and health workers. She was a pioneer in starting health services for after-rape victims.”
We pay tribute to Mungherera for her passionate service, remarkable voice and distinguished leadership. May her soul rest in peace!