In 2019, the shocking story of 105 Ugandan children’s deaths at a clinic operated by American missionary Renee Bach sent shockwaves across the globe.
Now, HBO has published a three-part documentary titled “Savior Complex” that premiered on Sept. 26, which delved into the controversy surrounding Bach’s missionary work in Uganda but paints her in part as a “savior”.
Bach’s journey began when, at 19, she volunteered at a missionary-run orphanage in Uganda. Feeling a divine calling, she returned to set up her own charity, “Serving His Children,” providing free meals to malnourished children.
The controversy arose when allegations surfaced that Bach, lacking medical training, dangerously treated severely ill children, leading to their deaths.
The legal aftermath of the tragedy saw Bach facing lawsuits from families of the deceased Ugandan children. Gimbo Zubeda and Kakai Annet, among others, accused Bach and her charity of negligence. In a settlement, Bach and “Serving His Children” agreed to pay approximately $9,500 to each bereaved mother, without admitting liability.
The documentary, produced by HBO, explored missionary work in Uganda, particularly focusing on Bach’s role and the accusations against her.
According to HBO, the “Savior Complex” investigates the tragic deaths of innocent children and sheds light on the broader issue of unqualified individuals providing medical care in vulnerable communities.
The three-part document raises questions about its portrayal of Renee Bach. The series seems to oscillate between two perspectives, presenting her both as a savior and a potential serial killer.
The second episode introduces accusations from the activist group “No White Saviors”, accusing Bach of conducting medical experiments on the children and labeling her the “Angel of Death.”
However, as the series progresses, it becomes evident that the accusations against Bach collapse due to a lack of evidence.
The final episode, titled “Reap What You Sow,” shifts the narrative to highlight Ugandan voices, particularly civil rights lawyer Primah Kwagala, who played a pivotal role in pressing the mothers’ civil suit against Bach.
The documentary raises important questions about accountability in missionary work and the potential consequences of unqualified individuals providing medical care in vulnerable communities.
As the controversy surrounding Renee Bach in the aftermath of the HBO documentary, the true impact of her actions and the lasting effects on the communities she aimed to serve will undoubtedly be a subject of intense discussion.
