BWAISE, Kampala : The Haulage Corridor East Africa Professional Drivers Association (HCEAPDA), working in partnership with Kawaala Health Centre III in Bwaise, Kawempe Division, has extended free medical services to 120 people, largely from the truckers’ fraternity, after a needs assessment report indicated that they are among the most vulnerable to deadly infectious diseases.
The medical camp was held on 28th January 2026 at the Bwaise Commercial Complex truck parking yard, where a team of medics and counsellors offered a range of free medical services, including HIV/AIDS testing and counselling, STI check-ups, among others. This was informed by the lifestyle history of truckers, which includes reported high-risk sexual behaviour.
Joweria Sadiq, a counsellor from Kawaala Health Centre III, told this website on the sidelines of the medical camp that Bwaise is one of their major HIV/AIDS catchment areas due to the area’s bustling commercial activities, which expose many people to sexually transmitted infections.
Sadiq commended the HCEAPDA Chairman, Stephen Muhwezi, and his team for consistently being at the forefront of championing the health agenda of drivers across the country and beyond.
“On behalf of the management of Kawaala Health Centre III, we register our deep appreciation to Muhwezi and his team for championing the health agenda of the truckers’ community both within the country and across the East African region. This industry faces many health-related challenges due to the mobility of its workers,” noted Sadiq.
She pledged continued collaboration with the Association in future engagements, especially within their operational jurisdiction.
Sadiq also commended the leadership of the Bwaise Commercial Complex truck parking yard for effective mobilisation, which saw many members turn up for the medical camp. She noted the benefits of such initiatives and pledged more future visits to engage stakeholders.
The Chairperson of the Twegatte Truck Drivers Association (TTDA) Bwaise, Asman Bwire, said the camp was positively received by members, as many were tested for various infectious diseases. He noted that this places them in a better position to practise safer sex by using condoms and other key preventive measures for their future well-being.
Stephen Muhwezi thanked all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the camp, saying the Association would continue organising similar medical camps and sensitisation campaigns to discourage reckless sexual behaviour, which negatively impacts positive living.
He further revealed that the Association has set up a fully furnished and stocked wellness medical clinic and recreation centre at its Ndeeba-based headquarters in Natete, Lubaga Division. The facility will serve as a one-stop centre where drivers in transit can access medical check-ups, recreation services, entertainment, and rest before continuing their journeys.
