By Mukama Philip Kahigiriza
NTUNGAMO
The Archdiocese of Mbarara Development Association (AMDA) recently concluded its 10th annual caravan in Rushooka, Ntungamo, shedding light on the pressing issue of malnutrition in the community. The four-day event, held from September 4-7, brought together hundreds of volunteers, healthcare professionals, and community members to provide medical care, education, and economic empowerment.
The medical camp, held on September 7th, treated 5,258 individuals, with a significant number of cases related to malnutrition and poor growth among children. According to AMDA’s head of medical services Dr. Crescent Tumuhaise who is also the Nkozi Hospital Executive Director, the prevalence of malnutrition was a striking concern, highlighting the need for sustained efforts to address this concern.
“The medical camp treated a significant number of patients, with prevalent cases of malnutrition and poor growth among children,” Dr. Tumuhaise noted. “This is a clear indication that malnutrition remains a major health concern in this community, and we must continue to work together to address it.” added Tumuhaise.
In addition to healthcare, AMDA’s caravan also focused on education and economic empowerment, with training programs on soap-making and jelly-making, workshops for secondary school teachers, and the launch of a borehole to provide clean water.
The community expressed heartfelt gratitude for AMDA’s efforts, with Rushenyi County Member of Parliament, Hon. Kabasharira Naome, praising the association for bringing such programs to the local community. AMDA will hold its 11th caravan in 2025 at Mbarara Archdiocese.