The Commander of Headquarters Uganda Rapid Deployment Capability (HQ URDC), Brigadier General Ernest Nuwagaba, has said the strong public response to the ongoing Field Training Exercise, codenamed Okoa Maisha 26, reflects increasing trust in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
Hundreds of residents in Bulambuli District turned up at Buginyanya NARO Agricultural Farm and Muyembe Health Centre IV to access free medical services offered by the UPDF as part of the exercise.
“This large turnout is a reflection of trust in the national army. This medical camp is part of our corporate social responsibility, intended to give back to the community for the trust and support they continue to extend to us,” Brig Gen Nuwagaba said.
He emphasised that such civil-military engagements are critical in strengthening cooperation between the armed forces and civilians, in line with the UPDF’s constitutional mandate to support civil authorities during emergencies and disasters.
Brig Gen Nuwagaba also encouraged residents to fully utilise the three-day outreach, which has brought together medical specialists handling a wide range of conditions.
The Okoa Maisha 26 exercise officially began on 12 April 2026 in Bulambuli District under the theme: “Strengthening multi-sectoral resilience and local action on sustainable disaster response and management through integrated leadership and command.”
According to Colonel Dr Francis Bakahena, Director of Public Health in the UPDF and head of the medical team, services at Buginyanya are mainly outpatient-based, while more complex and surgical cases are being handled at Muyembe Health Centre IV.
He said the team is managing conditions including minor surgeries, tuberculosis and cancer screening, eye and dental care, cervical and breast cancer screening for women, laboratory services, and general outpatient treatment.
Representing the Ministry of Health, Edward Basenge described the medical camp as a significant public health intervention addressing key community needs.
He noted that the ministry has deployed 26 emergency medical workers alongside a blood donation team from the national blood bank.
The Deputy District Health Officer for Bulambuli, Martin Naimu, commended the collaboration between the UPDF, Ministry of Health, and district health teams, describing the initiative as timely and impactful.
“Several people have been mobilised for this important activity. The exercise is progressing well, and we thank the UPDF and all partners for the work they are doing for the people of Bulambuli,” he said.
The exercise has brought together multiple agencies, including the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, Uganda Police Force, Uganda Prisons Service, Office of the Prime Minister, Uganda Red Cross, and other government bodies.
It combines operational training aimed at strengthening disaster response and community support while testing the readiness of HQ URDC to respond swiftly to emergencies.
Okoa Maisha 26 is scheduled to conclude on April 25, 2026.
