KAMPALA, July 15, 2026 – UPDF Representative in Parliament, Lt. Gen. Samuel Kavuma, has called on Ugandans to embrace regular medical checkups and abandon the culture of self-medication, which he said is significantly contributing to the country’s high disease burden.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, Lt. Gen. Kavuma expressed concern that many Ugandans only seek medical attention when illnesses have reached advanced stages, making treatment more difficult and costly. He noted that preventive healthcare remains one of the weakest links in Uganda’s health-seeking behavior.
According to the senior military officer, more than 98 percent of Ugandans do not undergo routine medical examinations despite the growing prevalence of both communicable and non-communicable diseases.
“Many of us have a mini-clinic in our bedrooms,” Kavuma observed, referring to the widespread practice of keeping and taking medicines without professional medical guidance. He warned that self-medication often leads to delayed diagnosis, incorrect treatment, and the worsening of health conditions.
The legislator emphasized that regular health screening can help detect illnesses at an early stage, allowing medical professionals to intervene before conditions become severe. He argued that early diagnosis not only saves lives but also reduces the financial burden on families and the national healthcare system.
Lt. Gen. Kavuma’s remarks come at a time when Uganda continues to face increasing cases of non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and heart-related complications, alongside infectious diseases that require timely diagnosis and treatment. He urged citizens to prioritize preventive healthcare and make routine medical checkups part of their lifestyle.
The UPDF MP further underscored the importance of public awareness campaigns aimed at educating communities about the dangers of self-medication and the benefits of seeking professional healthcare services. He said a healthier population is essential for national productivity and socio-economic transformation.
Lt. Gen. Kavuma, a seasoned military officer and legislator, has previously served in several senior positions within the Uganda People’s Defence Forces and represented the military in Parliament. He has also held key leadership roles in regional peacekeeping operations and national development initiatives.
His submission adds to ongoing parliamentary discussions on strengthening Uganda’s healthcare system and promoting preventive health measures as a way of improving the wellbeing of citizens across the country.
