A team of medical personnel from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) is treating hundreds of patients at Chahafi HC IV in Gisha village, Kisoro Municipality, as part of activities to mark the 45th Tarehe Sita celebrations in Kigezi Sub-region.
The static medical and surgical camps, which will ran from December 2-7, 2025, are offering a range of services, including free treatment for malaria, hernia, and minor surgical procedures.
The team is also conducting free dental and eye check ups, free male circumcision, HIV/AIDS screening and counseling, antenatal services, and is also providing general medical care.
According to Col Dr Nobert Kabugo the team 1 medical leader, he noted that the turnout is overwhelming, with hundreds of patients flocking to the health centre to receive treatment. “It was a blessing to see so many people receiving medical attention,” he said.
He appreciated the local leadership for mobilizing the locals and commended the existing partnership between the UPDF and Civilians community.
Col Dr Kabugo, however, cautioned residents to continuously clean their environment and avoid cooking from where they sleep to avoid malaria and any other respiratory tract infections.
The in charge Chahafi HC IV Dr Nkurunziza John Bosco lauded UPDF medics for all the support at the facility, noting the professionalism being exhibited not only in the military but also in the health sector.
“The UPDF medics are doing a great job, and we appreciate their efforts, he added.
The UPDF medical team, is working tirelessly to attend to patients, performing surgeries, administering vaccinations, and providing medication against illnesses like diarrhea, malaria, vomiting, tuberculosis and hyper tension.
“We are here to serve the community and make a difference in their lives,” said another UPDF medical expert.
“It’s a privilege to be part of this initiative and contribute to the health and wellbeing of our people.”
The UPDF’s medical outreach is part of its broader efforts to support communities across the country, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare is limited.
The initiative has been welcomed by local leaders, who praise the UPDF for their commitment to serving the people.
“We are grateful to the UPDF for this medical camp.The services provided here are essential, and we appreciate the efforts of the UPDF medical team,” said Dr Nkurunziza.
Ms Judith Ndyaziye, a mother of a one – month old son, who had brought her child for immunization commended the UPDF medical gesture in their area, aside from providing security.
She also implored other patients in the area to embrace the free static medical and surgical services being offered by the UPDF medics in the Sub-region.
The medical camp at Chahafi HC IV is one of several being conducted in several health centers across Kigezi Sub-region as part of the Tarehe Sita celebrations.
Other activities being performed by the pro-people UPDF include construction projects, tree planting, vector control and community clean-up initiatives.