The medical team from Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) is providing free healthcare to hundreds of residents at Chahafi Health Centre IV in Kisoro District as part of activities marking the 45th Tarehe Sita celebrations in the Kigezi Sub-region.
The week-long medical outreach, running from December 2 to 7, is offering treatment for malaria, hernia, minor surgeries, dental and eye care, male circumcision, HIV/AIDS screening and counseling, antenatal services, and general medical care.
Col Dr Nobert Kabugo, the team 1 medical leader, said the response has been overwhelming. “It was a blessing to see so many people receiving medical attention,” he said. He thanked local leaders for mobilizing residents and praised the partnership between the UPDF and the civilian community.
He also advised families to maintain proper hygiene. He warned them to avoid cooking in living areas to reduce the spread of malaria and respiratory infections.
The in-charge of Chahafi Health Centre IV, Dr Nkurunziza John Bosco, applauded the UPDF for their professionalism and continued support. “The UPDF medics are doing a great job, and we appreciate their efforts,” he said.
The medical team is performing surgeries, administering vaccinations, and treating illnesses such as diarrhea, malaria, vomiting, tuberculosis, and hypertension. “We are here to serve the community and make a difference in their lives,” said one UPDF medical expert. “It’s a privilege to be part of this initiative and contribute to the health and wellbeing of our people.”
Residents have welcomed the medical camp, saying it has eased the burden of accessing healthcare. Judith Ndyaziye, who brought her one-month-old baby for immunization, commended the UPDF for supporting the community beyond security roles. She urged other residents to take advantage of the free services.
The outreach is one of several static and surgical medical camps being conducted across health facilities in Kigezi as part of this year’s Tarehe Sita activities. Other UPDF community support efforts include construction works, tree planting, vector control, and clean-up drives.
