By BUWULEJoseph Mary
KAMPALA — The Archdiocese of Mbarara Development Association (AMDA) has officially launched its 12th Annual Caravan, unveiling an ambitious outreach programme aimed at expanding access to health care, education, and socio-economic opportunities in underserved communities.
The launch, held Friday evening in Kampala, was officiated by Vice President Jessica Alupo, who praised AMDA for its unwavering commitment to uplifting vulnerable populations and complementing government service delivery efforts.The 2026 caravan will take place in Nyabwina Parish, Sheema District, during the first weekend of September, targeting thousands of beneficiaries from within the district and neighbouring areas such as Buhweju.
A Mission Rooted in ServiceSpeaking at the event, AMDA Chairman Chris Gumisiriza described the annual caravan as a flagship outreach initiative through which the association reconnects with its grassroots communities to address pressing development challenges.“Every year, we conduct a three-day visit to our parishes, focusing on those that are most underserved in terms of social services,” Gumisiriza said.
“This year, Nyabwina Parish stood out due to the challenges it faces, particularly in education and health care.”He emphasized that the 2026 edition will prioritise strengthening education infrastructure while delivering specialised health services—an upgrade from previous caravans that largely focused on general medical outreach.Shs672 Million Budget, Thousands to BenefitGumisiriza revealed that the caravan has an estimated budget of Shs672 million, with over Shs200 million already mobilised through cash contributions and pledges.
Among the commitments is Shs90 million pledged by government ministers towards the construction of a dormitory to support local schools.The outreach is expected to benefit between 7,000 and 8,000 people, with free medical services provided by qualified personnel, regardless of beneficiaries’ religious or political affiliations.
“This time, we are going beyond general medical camps. We will offer specialised services with adequate medicines and professional expertise to ensure meaningful impact,” he noted.He also called on well-wishers, partners, and the general public to contribute financially or through in-kind support to ensure the success of the initiative.
Transforming Lives Beyond Immediate ReliefReflecting on past caravans, Gumisiriza highlighted transformative outcomes, including the restoration of sight and hearing for thousands of people, as well as life-changing opportunities created through education support.“In one of our previous caravans, a child received support after a chance encounter and is now pursuing a law career after completing Senior Six.
These are the stories that define our mission,” he said.Nyabwina’s Long WaitNyabwina Parish coordinator Patrick Mutambi expressed gratitude that the parish will finally host the caravan after years of anticipation.“This journey began in 2022 through our executive committee, but we had applied as far back as 2005. We are grateful that 2026 will finally be our moment,” Mutambi said.He outlined a range of challenges facing the community, including inadequate school infrastructure, lack of clean water, absence of science laboratories and computer labs, and limited scholastic materials.
“With the new education curriculum, computer literacy is essential, yet many of our schools lack the facilities. Some even struggle with basic needs like mattresses and safe water,” he added.Tackling Broader Community ChallengesBeyond education and health, the caravan will address wider social issues such as drug abuse, poverty, and unemployment.
Mutambi said plans are underway to conduct sensitisation campaigns, promote economic empowerment through skills training, and explore the establishment of a skills development centre targeting youth and women.
Health interventions will include stocking local health centres with medicines and equipment, conducting mass deworming campaigns, and providing specialised treatment to at least 6,000 patients during the medical camp.
Government Applauds InitiativeIn her keynote address, Vice President Alupo, who contributed Shs10 million towards the cause, commended AMDA for its spirit of service and solidarity.
“This is my second time joining you, and I am especially delighted that this caravan—rightly referred to as muruhura, meaning comfort—is coming to my home parish, Nyabwina,” she said.Alupo reaffirmed government’s commitment to ensuring access to essential services, noting that partnerships with organisations like AMDA are critical in achieving inclusive development.“Government alone cannot do everything.
Initiatives like the AMDA Caravan bring services closer to the people, strengthen community engagement, and directly impact vulnerable groups including women, children, and the youth,” she said.She also emphasised the need for collective responsibility, urging local leaders and communities to take ownership of the programme to ensure its sustainability.
Call for Collective ActionAlso present at the launch was Kahinda Otafiire, who contributed Shs10 million in support of the initiative.Alupo described the caravan as a powerful demonstration of what can be achieved through unity and collaboration.
“This initiative stands as a testament to the power of collective action for the common good,” she said before officially launching the 12th AMDA Caravan.Looking AheadAs preparations gain momentum, expectations are high that the 2026 AMDA Caravan will deliver lasting impact in Nyabwina Parish—bridging gaps in health care, improving education standards, and empowering communities with skills and opportunities for sustainable development.
With strong backing from government, partners, and well-wishers, the initiative is poised not only to provide immediate relief but also to lay the foundation for long-term transformation in one of Sheema District’s most underserved communities.