UPDF medical services commended for preparedness to fight coronavirus

The UPDF Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen David Muhoozi has commended the Chieftaincy of Medical Services for their preparedness to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Gen Muhoozi made the remarks on Tuesday, April 28 as he inspected the Field Hospital set up to support national health services at the General Military Hospital Bombo.

Gen Muhoozi noted that Ugandans are extremely happy with the medical team’s professionalism exhibited in dealing with the Covid-19 crisis.

“Our medical teams have played a critical role as part of the various response teams set up by the Ministry of Health,” Gen Muhoozi said.

He expressed gratitude to the U.S government for its partnership with Uganda in professionalizing the forces.

The U.S. supported UPDF in building capabilities to rapidly respond to crises including pandemics.

The field hospital was donated to the government of Uganda under $267M Africa Peace Keeping Rapid Response Program (APRRP) which started in 2015.

Uganda, Ethiopia, Senegal, Tanzania, Ghana and Rwanda are countries that have so far benefited from the program.

The Chief of Medical Services, Maj Gen Dr Ambrose Musinguzi thanked the UPDF leadership for continued support to the established medical centres whose services are also extended to the community.

Col Edward Dupont, the USA Defense Attaché in Kampala commemded UPDF’s contribution to Uganda’s efforts against Covid-19 and noted that positive results are visible. He thanked the UPDF for putting to good use, the skills and equipment donated by the U.S. and pledged continued support.

The Chief of Defences Forces and the Defence Attaché thereafter visited Pte Alex Niwanyine, the soldier who lost his eye during a curfew enforcement mission in Bibia. Niwanyine is recuperating well.

Others who accompanied the CDF to inspect the Field Hospital include; the Joint Chief of Staff Lt Gen Joseph Musanyufu, the General Headquarters Camp Commandant Maj Gen Jerome Kakari, and Brig Gen Richard Karemire the Defence Spokesperson among others.