By VoiceNews.africa Editorial 
When 47-year-old Rose Namakula received a diagnosis of stage 3 Esophageal cancer, doctors at Nsambya Hospital and the Uganda Cancer Institute warned that her condition was critical.
Her health deteriorated quickly; she could neither eat nor swallow saliva, and her body wasted away.
“She couldn’t take in anything. The doctors suggested inserting a feeding tube,” her son recalled.
“At that point, we had lost all hope. We even prepared for her burial.”
For months, Namakula underwent radiotherapy and chemotherapy, but the treatments offered little relief.
Turning to faith amid despair
When medical options seemed exhausted, her son persuaded her to visit Holy City Entebbe, a faith-based ministry led by Bro Ronnie Makabai.
According to Namakula, during a prayer session at the church, she felt something shift inside her throat. Moments later, she could drink water freely for the first time in months.
“It felt unreal. For the first time in months, I could drink and breathe freely,” she said.
Her family says she regained her strength within days and was able to walk again. When she returned to the Uganda Cancer Institute for follow-up scans, doctors reportedly found no trace of the disease.
Medical community urges caution
While Namakula’s story has inspired many, health experts say more evidence is needed to verify claims of faith-based healing.
“Medicine doesn’t have all the answers,” said a doctor familiar with her case, speaking on condition of anonymity. “Spontaneous remission in cancer is extremely rare — but it can happen.”
Dr Miriam Akello, an oncologist based in Kampala, emphasised the importance of balancing faith and science.
“Faith plays a crucial role in emotional resilience,” she said. “But patients should continue seeking professional medical care even as they pray.”
A message of hope and renewed faith
At Holy City Entebbe, Namakula’s recovery has been celebrated as a testimony of divine healing. The ministry maintains that all prayers are offered free of charge.
“We have seen God heal what the world calls incurable,” said Bro Ronnie Makabai, the lead pastor. “Miracles are still happening today. Let the world know that Jesus is Lord.”
Today, Namakula lives cancer-free — a transformation that her family, doctors, and community continue to reflect upon with awe.
“I believe God gave me another chance at life,” she said. “My message to everyone fighting illness is—do not give up.”
Faith, science, and the mystery of healing
Whether viewed as a medical mystery or a miracle of faith, Namakula’s story underscores a growing public conversation in Uganda about the role of spirituality in healthcare.
For now, she continues to live her second chance — grateful, healthy, and full of hope.