The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Kampala, Uganda | Patricia Akankwatsa | The Archdiocese of Mbarara Development Association (AMDA) presented a comprehensive report on its 10th Caravan activities showcasing the organisation’s significant impact on various sectors in Western Uganda. The report which was unveiled on October 18th at Silver Springs Bugolobi at a breakfast meeting in recognition of their partners, highlighted initiatives in environmental sustainability, economic empowerment, education development, leadership development, spiritual growth, and health interventions.
A centrepiece of the Caravan which was held in Rushooka and Bwizibwera parishes from Sept 5th to Sept 8th was a health medical camp, which emerged as the largest and most impactful activity.
Thousands of community members benefited from free medical checkups, consultations, and treatments, addressing urgent health needs in underserved areas. Specialists across various fields, including general medicine, dentistry, and maternal health, provided essential services to individuals who might otherwise have limited access to healthcare.
Over 9000 people were treated for a range of health conditions, including eye care with cataract surgeries and reading glasses, dental services, cancer screening, General Medical Care, Specialist Psychiatric Care, Specialist Gynaecology Care, Ante-natal Care, Post Natal Care, TB Screening & mental health, HIV Counselling and Testing Services, Counselling services, screening for Non-Communicable Diseases and Laboratory Services among others.
Beyond the health camp, AMDA’s commitment to environmental sustainability was demonstrated through tree-planting campaigns, waste management education, and sustainable agriculture practices. These activities aimed to equip local communities with the tools and knowledge to combat environmental degradation and climate change, aligning with global efforts toward a greener future.
The report also highlights economic empowerment initiatives also took centre stage, with training sessions to enhance entrepreneurial skills, financial literacy, and small-scale business development. Many participants, particularly women and youth, benefited from capacity- building programs that encouraged self-sufficiency and economic resilience. The team distributed 10,000 coffee seedlings, 6,000 fruit seedlings, 19,000 Eucalyptus seedlings, and 11,520 indigenous fruit seedlings to promote environmental sustainability.
The Caravan’s education development programs focused on improving access to quality education, with AMDA supporting the construction of new classrooms, offering scholarships, and providing learning materials to students. These efforts were designed to uplift education standards and create opportunities for young people to excel academically.
In terms of leadership and spiritual development, AMDA hosted leadership workshops that emphasized integrity, community service, and ethical governance, while spiritual activities focused on strengthening the faith and moral compass of participants. Through these initiatives, AMDA reinforced the importance of holistic growth—combining spiritual well-being with practical skills for life.
AMDA Chairman, Chris Gumisiriza, highlighted the significance of the Caravan during a recognition ceremony.
“The Caravan embodies our dedication to serving Catholic communities in our Archdiocese,” he stated.
“This year’s event was exceptional, featuring a wider range of medical services, new partnerships, and expanded activities. We identified a pressing need for healthcare in these communities and aimed to address it effectively,”
Honourable Naome Kabasharira, Member of Parliament for Rushenyi County, echoed Gumisiriza’s remarks.
“The AMDA Caravan is instrumental in shifting mindsets within the western region,” she explained.
“Their seven-pillar approach makes them a valuable partner to our government. I witnessed the positive impact of their activities in my constituency, particularly in Rushooka and Bwizibwera parishes. The three-day Caravan was timely and transformative for my constituents, regardless of their religious affiliation. I’m grateful for its enduring influence,”
AMDA’s Caravan serves as a platform for giving back to the communities where its members originate. Beyond philanthropy, the initiative aims to inspire and transform mindsets, pass on valuable skills, and emulate the principles of Christ through the seven pillars of unity, spiritual development, leadership development, economic empowerment, education development, health and wellness, and environmental sustainability.
Chairman Gumisiriza expressed deep gratitude to AMDA members, associates, friends, and corporate partners.
“Your unwavering support, whether financial, human resources, technical expertise, or moral encouragement, has made this mission a reality,” he stated.
“We are immensely grateful for your trust and commitment. We pledge to continue serving the most vulnerable members of our community with dedication and compassion,”
Since its inception in 2013, AMDA’s Caravan has been a cornerstone of community development in Western Uganda. Through nine successful iterations, the Caravan delivering a comprehensive range of services and initiatives.
Anthony Rucukye the AMDA secretariat thanked partners and encouraged members to prioritize relationship building and maintenance through regular communication, collaboration on projects, and exploring new partnership opportunities.
“Collaborating with partners can provide AMDA with access to additional resources, expertise, and networks, enhancing its programs and initiatives,”
The next Caravan is scheduled to take place in Nyamitanga parish in September 2025, promising to continue this legacy of community empowerment and positive change.
