The Minister of State for Defence in charge of Veteran Affairs, Hon. Oleru Huda, has applauded the Public Service Commission for identifying and developing the human capital that has steered the country to acceptable levels of socio-economic growth.
Hon. Huda said this as Chief Guest at a function held at Bugolobi market, where the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs (MODVA) joined the rest of the Public Servants to commemorate the 12th African Public Service Day (APSD).
She noted that the cleaning of Bugolobi market by staff from MODVA is only symbolic in nature, and demonstrates a mechanism that bridges the gap between government and wanainchi; in fulfilment of the Ministry’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).
“This is one way in which the public can identify with the Ministry and support us in the fulfilment of our broader Mission which in our case is defending and protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our Country,” she said, adding that, “supporting the community by giving back is an essential part of expressing our shared humanity and solidarity with fellow citizens.”
She encouraged public servants to serve diligently up to the lowest citizen for inclusive growth to spur steady progress.
The Minister lauded residents and leadership of Nakawa division for accepting to participate in the noble cause.
Speaking at the same function, the UPDF Chief of Civil-Military Cooperation, Brig Gen EK Rwashande, noted that the event presents 2023 as a year for the African Union to show dedication and promotion of innovative governance for sustainable development and people–centred administration.
“This activity narrows the gap between us the public servants and the communities that we serve. Communities have the right to live in a clean environment but also have the responsibility to keep it clean. We have come here to offer you a hand in cleaning your area. Ensure that you keep it clean,” Brig Gen EK Rwashande told Bugolobi residents.
The Member of Parliament for Nakawa East Hon Balimwezo Ronald Nsubuga thanked the UPDF leadership for the strategic guidance and support that made the activity a success.
“Thank you for the CSR activities which include; cleaning, tree planting, and free medical camp, among others,” Hon Balimwezo said.
The Public Africa Public Service Day (APSD) is an important strategic event on the African Union Calendar set aside for Public Servants and Public Service Institutions.
It is celebrated annually across the Continent by all African Union Member States, with 23rd June every year, being the final day of CSR activities.
The celebrations to mark the annual 12th Edition of the APSD were organized under the theme: “The African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) will require a fit-for-purpose African Public Administration to succeed”.
The function was also graced by the attendance of UPDF Senior and Junior Officers, religious leaders, civilian staff at the MODVA, the business community, and the media fraternity, among others.