Archdiocese of Mbarara Development AssociationFor many AMDA members, the Caravan is the highlight of the calendar: a journey that blends faith, service, fellowship and community transformation.
How it began
Former AMDA Chairperson Dr. Gaston Ampe traced the Caravan to a decision of the AMDA Executive Committee in 2013, under then Chairman Mr. Silver Agubanshonorera. Members agreed on a simple visit to support the projects of Fr. Vincent Tumwebaze, especially the Maria Girls School he had started. That first visit to Rugazi Parish has grown into one of AMDA’s most transformative initiatives. He shared this in the third session of the AMDA Caravan Webinar Series.
The Caravan has since visited Rugazi, Ruhungiro, Rwera, Kitabi, Kazo, Rushanje, Mushanga, Butare, Ibanda Kagongo, Rushoka and Nyamitanga, among other communities, reaching 28 parishes. In 2026 the 12th Caravan returns to Nyabwina, the parish of the priest whose projects inspired the first visit.
Giving is not just about money
“It is about offering your time, your skills, your presence, and your commitment,” Dr. Ampe reminded participants. Doctors and nurses spend their leave serving patients. Teachers offer mentorship and training. Lawyers give legal advice, counsellors support families, environmental practitioners lead conservation activities, and entrepreneurs share practical skills.
Measuring impact one life at a time
Between 2015 and 2025, AMDA medical camps served 47,458 patients across western Uganda.
| Year | Parish | Patients served |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Rwera | 2,644 |
| 2016 | Kitabi | 3,792 |
| 2017 | Kazo | 4,289 |
| 2018 | Rushanje | 5,762 |
| 2019 | Mushanga | 6,157 |
| 2022 | Butare | 4,792 |
| 2023 | Ibanda Kagongo | 9,334 |
| 2024 | Rushoka | 5,258 |
| 2025 | Nyamitanga | 5,430 |
The medical camps and the wider Caravan work earned AMDA the Heroes in Health Award in 2022. Read more: free cleft surgeries, restoring sight and hearing and the Caravan page.