In the midst of a strike by doctors in public hospitals, the Uganda Peoples Defence Forces (UPDF) medical personnel is now treating patients at different health facilities.
According to a release by UPDF Spokesperson Brigadier Richard Karemire, the forces’ medical team is being coordinated by Colonel Dr Stephen Kusasira, the UPDF Director of Medical Services.
‘The UPDF Doctors are already deployed in the field to support current efforts to save lives following the industrial action by medical workers. The Army is putting at the disposal of the wanainchi some of its highly qualified doctors that have been instrumental in saving lives of soldiers and civilians in the many operational areas. This deployment is being coordinated by Col Dr Stephen Kusasira, the UPDF Director of Medical Services who holds an MBCHB and Master of Medicine in Obstetrics and Gynaecology from Makerere University,’ Brig. Karemire’s release read in part.
According to the statement, the team is both Kiruddu and Kawempe hospitals providing both emergency and specialized services, with those deployed including Dr Ronald Oboth, Dr Gideon Nuwagira and Dr Patrick Otim among others.
‘The insinuations that these officers are not qualified are unfortunate to say the least. UPDF will not be deterred from its historical duty to serve the people. The UPDF health units totalling more than 109 will as usual continue to provide health support to the people in those areas. This is what a revolutionary force can best offer on top of peace and security,’ Brig Karemire adds.
