Dr. Ian Clarke’s narrative, drawn from his book How Deep Is This Pothole?, offers a vivid and thoughtful portrayal of both Uganda and Ireland through the lens of an Irish doctor. It uncovers the complexities of Ugandan leadership, explores the essence of care and perseverance, and underscores the value of embracing risk.
At its core, the story traces the unwavering courage of an Irish missionary doctor who journeyed from Ireland to Uganda, laying the foundation for a structured healthcare system by building hospitals, training professionals, and establishing medical services. Yet, the richness of the book lies equally in its subplots.
For instance, when Ian and his wife Roberta arrived in Luwero with their young children, they encountered a politically unstable environment marked by volatile regime changes. The 1980s also brought the onset of the AIDS epidemic, marked by fear, unrecorded fatalities, and emotional devastation in the absence of sufficient knowledge and treatment.
At the same time, Ian was raising a young family. Though they largely supported his mission and shared his vision, they were still growing and had natural questions about their individual paths and what place Uganda held in their lives.
Ian’s journey is filled with sincerity and remarkable tenacity. His deep commitment to his mission, which is to use his medical skills to create lasting impact, is unmistakable, standing in stark contrast to those who engage only superficially.
The story of his work, from Kiwoko to Kampala, is captivating. He navigated complex negotiations with government officials, contractors, and healthcare professionals, even as he faced unethical actors who could easily have discouraged him, but didn’t.
During his mission in Uganda, Ian was diagnosed with cancer twice. His battles with illness further highlight the power of a supportive partner, and his wife Roberta’s steadfast presence proved essential during this period.
What began as a healthcare mission eventually expanded into cross-border ventures, including real estate projects in Zanzibar.
He embodies the true meaning of being unstoppable. Ian’s story taught me much about Uganda’s systems and history, and deepened my admiration for those who pursue their vision with unwavering dedication.
Published in 2010, How Deep Is This Pothole? captures just the beginning of Dr. Clarke’s expanding influence. Since then, he has served as a Member of Parliament for Makindye, while his family has continued to grow in the fields of healthcare and real estate.
