By Diana N. Kintu
The Uganda Prisons Service has completed the renovation of Nyakishenyi Health Centre III in Rubabo Sub-county, Rukungiri District, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme. The project formed part of activities marking the 45th Tarehe Sita Anniversary, which celebrates the sacrifices of Uganda’s freedom fighters.
The renovation was implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA), the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), and other sister security agencies. The upgraded facility was officially handed over during a ceremony attended by senior army and prison officials, local government leaders, and members of the community.
Hon. Huda Abason Oleru, the Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs, commended the Uganda Prisons Service for its strong cooperation and commitment to serving the public. She noted that the project demonstrates how security agencies can contribute to community welfare beyond their primary mandates.
Speaking on behalf of the Commissioner General of Prisons, Commissioner Gervase Tumuhimbise explained that an initial assessment of the facility revealed the need for more comprehensive upgrades. The scope of the renovation was subsequently expanded to include structural repairs, improved drainage systems, and the construction of paved access routes to enhance mobility and accessibility. Commissioner Tumuhimbise praised the Prisons Engineering Gang for delivering high-quality work within the planned timelines.
Maj. Gen. Dr Ambrose Musinguzi observed that the renovation would significantly improve access to health services for residents in Rubabo Sub-county and neighbouring communities. He urged local leaders and staff to ensure the continued upkeep and proper maintenance of the facility to preserve the benefits of the improvements.
The health centre in-charge, Dr Katusiime Hannibal, expressed gratitude to the Uganda Prisons Service and commended the engineers for their professionalism, discipline, and exemplary conduct throughout the project. He highlighted that the renovations will not only improve service delivery but also enhance patient safety and comfort.
Officials emphasised that the project reflects the enduring spirit of Tarehe Sita, which commemorates the heroism of Uganda’s freedom fighters while promoting social welfare initiatives that benefit communities across the country.
The 45th Tarehe Sita Anniversary was celebrated on Friday, 6 February 2026, under the theme “Defending the Gains of the Renovation, and Honouring the Sacrifices of the Freedom Fighters.” The celebrations, blessed by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the First Lady, Ms Janet Museveni, who is also the Minister of Education and Sports, were held at Kabale National Teachers College.
Through initiatives such as the Nyakishenyi Health Centre III renovation, the Uganda Prisons Service continues to demonstrate its commitment to social responsibility, extending essential services and welfare support to communities while fostering collaboration with other security and government agencies. Such efforts highlight the role of security institutions not only in maintaining law and order but also in contributing to national development and community well-being.
The upgraded health facility is expected to serve as a model for similar community-focused projects in other parts of the country, ensuring that residents have access to quality healthcare services in a safe and well-maintained environment.