UPDF conducts free medical camp in Kamwokya

KAMPALA - The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), through the Directorate of Women Affairs, has conducted a free medical outreach camp in Kikete, Kamwokya, as part of activities to commemorate International Women’s Day.

National celebrations scheduled for March 8, 2026, will be held at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, Kampala.

The one-day medical camp on Thursday was held at KCCA Primary School, Kamwokya, where residents received a range of free medical services provided by medical personnel from the UPDF Health Services.

Brigadier General Charity Bainababo, the Director of Women Affairs in the UPDF, said that the initiative reflects the army’s tradition of giving back to the communities it serves.

A release from the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs states that Bainababo explained that the outreach aims not only to provide free treatment but also to interact with the community and offer counselling in line with the UPDF’s philosophy as a people-centred force.

“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 added in her address to a large gathering at the camp.

Brig Gen Bainababo revealed that Kamwokya was selected because of ongoing engagement between the UPDF and the ghetto community structures. She said such initiatives are part of efforts to guide youth to live a meaningful life and embrace government programmes aimed at improving livelihoods.

Brigadier General Charity Bainababo, the Director of Women Affairs in the UPDF, said that the initiative reflects the army’s tradition of giving back to the communities it serves. (UPDF Photo)

The medical team was led by Lieutenant Dr Ronald Nkumbi, who said the outreach was organised to extend health services to heavily populated city suburbs.

“We are offering free services including antenatal care, treatment of respiratory conditions, nutritional assessments, HIV testing and counselling, health education, and guidance on personal hygiene,” Lt Dr Nkumbi revealed to the residents at the camp.

He encouraged residents to take advantage of the services, noting that many communities often face challenges accessing health facilities.

Huge numbers who turned welcomed the initiative and praised the UPDF for reaching out to underserved communities.

One of the beneficiaries, Nazziwa Noelin, said the medical camp had greatly helped residents who cannot 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 extend similar outreach programmes to other ghetto communities where access to healthcare remains limited.