The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has conducted a free medical outreach in Kamwokya, Kampala, as part of activities leading to the International Women’s Day celebrations scheduled for March 8, 2026, at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds.
The one-day medical camp was held at KCCA Primary School Kamwokya, where residents received a range of free health services provided by UPDF medical personnel.
Speaking during the outreach, the Director of Women Affairs in the UPDF, Charity Bainababo, said the initiative reflects the army’s commitment to supporting the communities it serves.
“As the people’s army, we do not only provide physical security but also support other aspects of human security such as health and economic empowerment through programmes like Operation Wealth Creation,” she said.
Bainababo explained that the outreach was intended not only to provide free treatment but also to create an opportunity for interaction and counselling between the army and the community.
She noted that Kamwokya was selected because of ongoing engagement between the UPDF and ghetto community structures working with Salim Saleh. According to her, such initiatives help guide youth away from unrest and encourage them to participate in government programmes aimed at improving livelihoods.
The medical team was led by Ronald Nkumbi, who said the outreach was organised under the UPDF Directorate of Women Affairs to bring essential health services closer to the community.
“We are here to conduct a one-day medical outreach offering free services including antenatal care, treatment of respiratory conditions, nutritional assessments, HIV testing and counselling, health education, and guidance on personal hygiene,” Nkumbi said.
He encouraged residents to take advantage of the services, noting that many communities often face challenges accessing health facilities.
“These services do not always reach people in their communities, so we have brought them here free of charge. The turnout so far has been very encouraging,” he added.
Residents welcomed the initiative and praised the UPDF for extending medical support to underserved communities.
One of the beneficiaries, Nazziwa Noelin, said the outreach had greatly helped residents who struggle to afford treatment.
“We are grateful to the UPDF for bringing these services to us. Many people have received treatment and medicine today,” she said.
Nazziwa appealed to the UPDF medical team to expand similar outreach programmes to other ghetto communities where access to healthcare remains limited.
