Mbingo Baptist Hospital (MBH) joined the global community on January 26, 2026 to celebrate World Leprosy Day under the theme, “Leprosy is curable, the real challenge is stigma”. One of our Mbingo based report, Yosimbi Promise says, the event, marked by pomp and pageantry, brought together hospital staff, healed and current Hansen’s Disease (HD) patients, coordinators, and well-wishers in a colourful and emotionally charged celebration.
World Leprosy Day, traditionally observed on the last Sunday of January, holds special significance for MBH as it recalls the hospital’s historical roots in the care and management of leprosy patients. Over the years, the celebration has become a symbol of hope, healing, and renewed commitment to the fight against leprosy and stigma.
As is tradition, the highlight of the ceremony was the discharge of patients who had successfully completed a one-year course of treatment and were officially declared cured. This year, six patients were discharged – five by proxy and one in person – amid joyful cheers and chants of “Happy discharge (Licharge)” that echoed throughout the hall.
In their addresses, MBH Leprosy Coordinator, Mr. Fombang Oliver, the Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) Coordinator, Mrs. Chimse Victorine, and the HD patients’ representative, Mr. Gana Bernson, commended the hospital administration for its relentless efforts in combating leprosy and reducing stigma associated with the disease. They emphasized the importance of community sensitization, early case detection, prompt treatment, and sustained support as key strategies toward the elimination of Hansen’s Disease.
The hospital administration saluted the courage and resilience of the discharged patients, reaffirming MBH’s long-standing commitment to quality care, rehabilitation, and reintegration of leprosy patients into society.
A particularly touching moment was the testimony of Mr. Kawep Dieudonne from Bankim in the Adamawa Region, who received his certificate of completion in person. Once unable to walk, Mr. Kawep now moves with the help of crutches – a transformation he described as nothing short of a miracle. “I know people who are suffering from similar conditions, and I must lead them to care in Mbingo,” he said, his voice filled with gratitude and determination.
The celebration concluded with a fellowship meal, as participants shared stories, laughter, and renewed hope – a fitting end to a day that celebrated healing, dignity, and the power of compassion. MBH once again demonstrated that while leprosy is indeed curable, the greater battle lies in breaking stigma and restoring lives.
