KAMPALA – In 2024, the Archdiocese of Mbarara Development Association (AMDA) embarked on an extraordinary mission of charity, known as the AMDA Caravan. This annual outreach program aimed to bring essential services and support to selected home parishes within the Archdiocese. This year’s destination was Bwizibwera and Rushooka parishes in Ntungamo district.
AMDA Chairman, Chris Gumisiriza, shared the significance of the Caravan at a breakfast meeting, where partners were recognized and awarded. “The AMDA Caravan represents our commitment to serving the Catholic communities in our Archdiocese. This year’s event was remarkable, with the largest number of specialized medical services, new partners, and enhanced activities. We recognized the dire need for healthcare services in these communities and sought to bridge the gap.”
Honorable Naome Kabasharira, Member of Parliament for Rushenyi County, echoed Chairman Gumisiriza’s sentiments. “The AMDA Caravan is crucial in fostering mindset change among the people in the western region. The seven-pillar concept makes AMDA a real partner to our government. I witnessed firsthand the impact of their activities in my constituency, particularly in Rushoka and Bwizibwera parishes. The three-day Caravan event was timely and life-changing for my people, regardless of their faith. I’m grateful for the lasting impact it will have.”
Uganda faces significant healthcare challenges, often preventing individuals from seeking medical attention. Financial constraints, limited accessibility, cultural beliefs, lack of trust, stigma, limited awareness, transportation challenges, long waiting times, and concerns about quality of care all contribute to this issue. The AMDA Caravan addressed these challenges head-on by providing comprehensive support.
The Caravan’s medical team offered free services, including specialized care and surgeries, to over 5,000 patients. This was made possible through the collaboration of 600 health workers who volunteered their expertise. Additionally, the team conducted health education and awareness programs to empower the community with knowledge about maintaining good health.
Infrastructure development was another key focus area. AMDA contributed 3 million UGX towards paving the church compound, constructed two shallow wells valued at 20 million UGX, and completed renovations totaling 60 million UGX. These improvements will have a lasting impact on the community’s quality of life.
Economic empowerment initiatives were also integral to the Caravan’s mission. Financial literacy and mindset change talks were conducted to equip individuals with the skills necessary to improve their economic well-being. Furthermore, 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.
Education was another critical aspect of the Caravan’s outreach. 100 textbooks, pens, and success cards were provided to candidates, and 100 secondary school teachers were trained on the new curriculum. This investment in education will have a ripple effect, benefiting future generations.
The AMDA Caravan also addressed legal challenges faced by the community. In collaboration with the Uganda Law Society, legal clinics were held, providing support for individuals seeking justice.
Gratitude and Appreciation
Chairman Gumisiriza expressed heartfelt thanks to AMDA members, associates, friends, and corporate organizations for their support. “Your generosity, whether financial, human resources, technical expertise, or moral encouragement, made this mission possible. We are grateful for the trust you have placed in us and pledge to continue serving the most vulnerable members of our community.”
A Message of Hope
Concluding the event, Chairman Gumisiriza quoted 2 Corinthians 9:7, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” He prayed that God would bless the givers abundantly.
As the AMDA family looks ahead to the next Caravan, they remain committed to serving the least of their brothers and sisters, inspired by Matthew 25:40, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”