Troops from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) International Peace Support Operations Training Centre (IPSO-TC) in Singo provided free medical services to hundreds of residents in Kapeka community, Nakaseke District, as part of an ongoing Mission Readiness Exercise (MRX) for Battle Group 47.
The one-day medical outreach camp, held at Naluvule Township, formed part of practical training activities under the MRX, designed to prepare troops for future peace support operations while strengthening civil-military cooperation at the community level.
Addressing local leaders and residents, IPSO-TC Chief Instructor Colonel David Watasa emphasized the dual purpose of the exercise, noting that operational readiness must go hand in hand with community engagement.
“Our numeric strength is derived from the civil populace, and therefore, we must give back to the community through free medical services as we relate and build trust. These activities are integral to our training, allowing troops to practice corporate social responsibility and strengthen civil-military cooperation, which is essential for future missions,” he said.
Commander of Battle Group 47, Colonel Wilson Barigye, reiterated that community outreach is a core component of UPDF doctrine. He explained that such engagements help consolidate peace, understand local challenges, and collaboratively develop solutions aimed at improving livelihoods.
“By working closely with communities, we are able to identify real needs and contribute to sustainable peace and development,” he said.
IPSO-TC Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Officer Major Edson Muheirwoh commended the strong turnout and active participation of residents, particularly during a joint cleanliness and sanitation exercise at Naluvule Market.
He pledged continued cooperation through community mobilisation and public health education initiatives aimed at promoting healthier living conditions and socio-economic transformation.
Local leaders welcomed the UPDF initiative, praising the longstanding partnership between the military and civilians in the district. Nakayenga Joyce, a Nakaseke District Councillor, expressed appreciation for the UPDF’s sustained support.
“We are grateful for the sustained free medical treatment and security provided by the UPDF across Nakaseke District,” she said.
During the medical camp, residents received treatment for both communicable and non-communicable diseases, laboratory investigations, family planning services, and antenatal care. UPDF troops also supported general sanitation and environmental cleanliness efforts within Naluvule Township.
The event was attended by senior and junior UPDF officers, including Lt Col Alfred Otim, Deputy Commander of Battle Group 47; Maj Benard Wandera, Course Coordinator; Maj Herbert Obita, Head of the Training Team; Maj Gordon Tushabe, Directing Staff; Maj Robert Byebiroha, Political Commissar; as well as local government leaders and community representatives.
The outreach underscores the UPDF’s commitment to integrating operational training with community development, reinforcing trust and cooperation between the military and the civilian population.
