The Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MoDVA), in partnership with the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), has launched a two-day medical camp in Kinawataka village, Nakawa Division, as part of activities marking the 14th African Public Service Day.
The outreach aims to strengthen civil-military relations and improve community wellbeing through free healthcare services.
This year’s celebrations are held under the theme “Enhancing the agility and resilience of institutions to achieve equitable governance and rapidly address historical service delivery gaps.”
Representing the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Permanent Secretary, Rosette Byengoma said the medical camp forms part of the lead-up to the main event on 7 July at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds.
“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,” she said.
She thanked residents for attending the camp, highlighting the importance of direct community engagement.
“This is the reason why we are here in Kinawataka. You are good neighbours. You have supported the Ministry and the UPDF. We appreciate that relationship,” she said.
Maj Gen. Henry Masiko, Joint Staff Political Commissariat of the UPDF, reaffirmed the army’s commitment to civil-military cooperation, describing it as a constitutional obligation.
“We are here today to give back to this community and foster harmony between the army and the public,” he said.
“This is not a one-off. We have done this before during Tarehe Sita, and we shall continue to do it,” he added
He also reassured the community of the UPDF’s dedication to their safety and rights. “We will defend you without fear or favour.”
Kinawataka Village Chairman, Ssalongo Yafeesi, expressed his gratitude to MoDVA and the UPDF for choosing their area, and thanked President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for building stronger bonds between the military and civilians.
“A long time ago, we used to run when we saw an army uniform. Today, we collaborate,” he said, illustrating the improved relationship.
The medical camp is expected to benefit hundreds of residents, and MoDVA has indicated that similar initiatives will be extended to other communities nationwide.
Attendees included; Edith Buturo, Under Secretary for Finance and Administration, the Assistant RCC of Nakawa Division, as well as senior and other junior UPDF officers.
