Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng was born in 1968 in Atapara, a village in present-day Oyam District. Shortly after her birth, her mother, a midwife, was transferred to Lira Regional Referral Hospital, where she continued her work. Dr. Aceng spent her early childhood in Lira until the age of five when she began her education at Amberland P.7 School. At the time, she lived with her parents and two siblings in a modest hut.

Her education at Amberland P.7 School continued until Primary Three when her father, a teacher, was transferred to Kampala. This prompted the family’s relocation, and her mother also secured a transfer to Mulago Hospital. Her father took up a position at the Institute of Public Administration, now known as the Uganda Management Institute (UMI).

Dr. Aceng and her siblings enrolled at Shimoni Demonstration School, where she completed her primary education. Although her first choice for secondary school was St. Catherine Senior Secondary School in Lira, her father opted for a school within Kampala. She was admitted to Nabisunsa Girls’ School, where she studied for six years. Under the guidance of a supportive headmistress, she excelled academically and became the only girl that year to qualify for a medical degree at Makerere University.

In 1987, she joined Makerere University’s medical school, where she met Andrew Ocero. Their paths initially crossed as classmates, but by 1989, they developed a deeper connection. They completed medical school in 1993, and by then, had decided to marry.

Following their graduation, Dr. Aceng and Andrew were posted to Lacor Hospital for their internship, which they completed in 1994 after a brief transfer to Mulago National Referral Hospital. They were initially assigned to Kiryandongo Hospital but requested a transfer to Lira Hospital, where they received a warm welcome. At the time, Lira Hospital faced significant challenges, and as young, hardworking doctors, they were determined to improve healthcare services. Their dedication earned them the nickname “Otin” (young) doctors, a reference to their youthful energy and commitment.

In 1995, before their traditional marriage, they had already welcomed two sons while in medical school. That same year, they had a daughter and continued their medical careers in Lira. In 1997, Lira Hospital experienced leadership challenges, leading to the resignation of the Medical Superintendent. The Chief Administrative Officer offered Andrew the role, but he instead recommended Dr. Aceng. She accepted the position and served as Medical Superintendent until 2000.

Seeking further specialization, Dr. Aceng decided to pursue studies in Pediatrics. This decision came after discussions with her husband, who prioritized her career advancement. She returned to school, and in 2001, Andrew joined her to study Adult Medicine. She completed her specialization in 2003 while holding an appointment as Senior Medical Officer and Medical Superintendent on study leave.

Although she initially wanted to remain in Kampala to teach and work at Mulago Hospital, Andrew encouraged her to return to Lira, believing it was the place where she could make the greatest impact. After some hesitation, she resumed her role as Medical Superintendent while practicing Pediatrics. In 2004, Andrew completed his studies and joined her in Lira. However, they decided to keep their children in Kampala to maintain their educational stability.

Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng’s dedication to healthcare and leadership in Uganda’s medical field has been instrumental in shaping the country’s health sector. Her commitment to service and professional excellence continues to inspire many.