The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), serving under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), have provided free medical services to Somali civilians as part of activities marking the 45th anniversary of Tarehe Sita, a day commemorated in honour of February 6, 1981 when the National Resistance Army (NRA) launched the historic five-year guerrilla war that brought President Museveni to power.
The humanitarian outreach was conducted through a free medical camp aimed at improving access to essential healthcare services while strengthening civil-military cooperation between AUSSOM-UPDF troops and local communities.
Speaking during the launch of the medical camp, the Ugandan Contingent Administration Officer, Colonel Hamza Kasajja, described Tarehe Sita as a significant milestone that symbolizes sacrifice, patriotism, and service to humanity.
“Tarehe Sita is a very important day for Uganda and the UPDF. We are commemorating it by giving back to the people of Somalia through free medical services and fumigation of the Marine Market. These activities are intended to enhance civil-military cooperation and support socio-economic transformation,” he said.
The Commanding Officer of the UPDF Level II Hospital, Captain Dr Robert John Obwapus, said the medical camp is offering a wide range of services to meet the healthcare needs of the local population. These include eye care, dental services, general medical screening, laboratory testing, minor surgical procedures, scanning services, and pharmaceutical support.
“Our goal is to ensure that civilians, especially those with limited access to healthcare, receive timely and quality medical attention,” he said.
The initiative received praise from Somali security and medical officials.
Dr Sophia Abdunar Ahmed of the Somali National Special Forces (DANAB), who serves as the Somali National Army representative at the Level II Hospital, commended the AUSSOM-UPDF contingent for its continued dedication to the welfare of Somali civilians.
“UPDF has consistently demonstrated commitment to the health and wellbeing of our people. These medical outreaches make a real difference in the lives of many families,” she said.
Beneficiaries of the medical camp expressed heartfelt appreciation for the initiative.
Sadio Kassim, one of the civilians who received treatment, said the outreach had brought much-needed relief to the community.
“I thank the UPDF for the free medical care. I have been sick for a long time without receiving proper help, but today I was treated,” she said.
The medical outreach underscores UPDF’s ongoing commitment to humanitarian support, strengthening civil-military relations, and contributing to peace, stability, and development in Somalia as part of its mandate under AUSSOM.
