UPDF Launches Free Medical Outreach in Kinawataka Ahead of Public Service Day

The Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF), in partnership with the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MoDVA), has launched a two-day free medical outreach in Kinawataka village, Nakawa Division, ahead of the 14th African Public Service Day celebrations.

The health camp, which began on Tuesday, aims to offer vital healthcare services to hundreds of local residents while strengthening ties between the military and civilian population.

The initiative also aligns with this year’s Public Service Day theme: “Enhancing the agility and resilience of institutions to achieve equitable governance and rapidly address historical service delivery gaps.”

Rosette Byengoma, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, described the outreach as a demonstration of the Ministry’s commitment to public engagement and service.

“This is one way in which the public can identify with the Ministry and support us in fulfilling our core duty of defending and protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our country,” Byengoma said during the launch.

Maj Gen Henry Masiko, chief political commissar of the UPDF, echoed the army’s resolve to support communities beyond traditional security functions.

“We are here today to give back to this community and foster harmony between the army and the public,” said Maj Gen Masiko.

“This is not a one-off. We have done this before during Tarehe Sita, and we shall continue to do it.”

Local leaders welcomed the effort, with Kinawataka Village Chairman Ssalongo Yafeesi applauding the UPDF for its role in improving civil-military relations and reaching underserved communities.

The outreach offers a range of medical services, including general check-ups, maternal and child health care, and treatment for common illnesses.

MoDVA officials say similar camps will be rolled out in other regions as part of ongoing public service initiatives.

The main African Public Service Day celebrations will take place on July 7 at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala.