Rubanda District Woman Member of Parliament-elect Evelyne Ninsiima Kikafunda has reaffirmed her commitment to improving healthcare services in hard-to-reach communities, with a particular focus on underserved rural areas across the district.
Kikafunda made the remarks on Wednesday while launching a one-day free dental outreach at Mugyera Catholic Church in Mugyera–Habuhutu Town Council, where hundreds of residents turned up to receive treatment.
The outreach, organized by Build Your Smile Dental Foundation Uganda, offered free dental services including tooth extractions, cleaning, fillings, and cementing aimed at improving oral health among vulnerable communities.
Kikafunda, accompanied by local leaders Obed Kitabutuka and Francine Turyazayo, crossed Lake Bunyonyi by boat to access the area, highlighting the transport challenges many residents face while seeking medical care.
“This is only the start. We are determined to ensure that people can receive quality healthcare without traveling long distances,” Kikafunda said.
She noted that several communities around Lake Bunyonyi and in Rubanda’s mountainous areas continue to struggle with limited access to health facilities and specialized treatment services.
Kikafunda also referenced her recent visit to Kyankwanzi, where President Yoweri Museveni encouraged leaders to decentralize essential services and take development closer to communities.
“I urge all of you to work closely with your leaders. Cooperation helps ensure effective implementation of community projects. Better health outcomes are vital for improving household incomes and driving overall development,” she added.
Rubanda District Secretary for Health and Education and LC5 Councilor for Bubaare Town Council, Obed Kitabutuka, commended the initiative, saying many of the dental services offered are rarely accessible in nearby government health facilities.
“Many residents cannot easily afford or access these services. I encourage communities to prioritize development and unity over political differences,” Kitabutuka said.
Francine Turyazayo, the newly elected LC5 Woman Councilor for Bubaare and Hamuhambo, urged leaders to remain connected to the people they represent and focus on initiatives that directly improve livelihoods.
Residents who benefited from the outreach welcomed the initiative, saying it reduced the financial burden of traveling long distances for treatment.
Beneficiaries including Ruhangariyo Siliveri, Nyirabitabari Willi, Liston Kanyebire, and Justine Kiconco said they received relief from persistent dental complications such as toothaches and allergies after receiving treatment.
The outreach forms part of broader efforts by local leaders and health partners to expand access to affordable healthcare services in rural communities across Rubanda District.
