Mengo Hospital is honouring the legacy of veteran dentist Dr. Ken Chapman with the establishment of a UGX 10 billion state-of-the-art dental centre named in his honour. A fundraising drive to support the project was launched over the weekend during a dinner at which Dr. Chapman officially retired from the hospital after 45 years of active service.
Executive Director of Mengo Hospital, Dr. Simon Peter Nsingo, expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm for the initiative, saying, “We have to thank you for making sure we have the ability to chew. Dr. Chapman has made sure we feed well and look healthy by looking after our teeth. We want to appreciate you for the diligence of service you have exemplified at Mengo Hospital. You have been more than a doctor, a cornerstone in the dental department.”
As the evening progressed, friends and colleagues of the esteemed doctor shared heartfelt reflections and personal experiences. Lady Justice Frances Abodo said, “Dr. Chapman has worked on my teeth with great care and expertise. I haven’t had any problem with my teeth ever since I started seeing this dentist. He has dedication for patients, and it is a true testament to his skill and compassion.”
Dr. Chapman was also praised for his extraordinary work ethic and dedication. The Director of Public Prosecutions added, “Your work at Mengo Hospital laid the foundation for modern dental services in this country. I believe your legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
A notable tribute came from Dr. Deo Mawano of Mawano Dental Clinic, a former mentee of Dr. Chapman. He said, “I never thought this man would invite me into his life, become my teacher, my friend, and brother. The first lesson I learnt from him was humility. On my first day, he gave me a broom and told me to sweep the floor. After that, he told me to wash the instruments. In my mind, we had nurses below us and another gentleman who used to sweep and clean the instruments. So it was an invaluable lesson in not thinking of yourself as being higher than you ought to.”
Dr. Ken Chapman leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, and excellence. The Ken Chapman Dental Centre of Excellence will carry that legacy forward, providing Christ-centered care and professional training for generations to come.
