In a concerted effort to tackle the chronic blood shortage in Uganda, the Uganda Development Bank (UDB) and ATC Uganda have joined forces to organize a life-saving blood donation drive. The initiative, held on Thursday at Mengo Hospital, aims to strengthen the hospital’s blood bank and support the national healthcare system’s need for safe and sufficient blood supplies.
The event, supported by technical partners Mengo Hospital and Minet, saw enthusiastic participation from employees of the partnering institutions and members of the public. This drive is a crucial component of a broader campaign to ensure the availability of safe blood across the nation.
Uganda currently collects approximately 300,000 liters of blood annually, which is significantly less than the recommended amount by the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO’s Global Database on Blood Safety suggests that a country should collect blood equivalent to at least 1% of its population. For Uganda, this means a substantial shortfall that underscores the urgent need for ongoing donation efforts.
Ms. Dorothy Ssemanda, Chief Executive Officer of ATC Uganda, highlighted the life-saving potential of blood donations during her speech at the event. “Blood donation is a selfless act that can save a child with severe anemia, a mother experiencing complications during childbirth, or a patient undergoing surgery. We are proud to partner with UDB to encourage voluntary, unpaid blood donations and make a positive impact,” she stated.
This blood donation drive is part of ATC Uganda’s Health and Fitness Week, designed to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The initiative reflects the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and community welfare.
Joshua Mwesiga, Director of Strategy and Corporate Affairs at UDB, also emphasized the bank’s commitment to improving health outcomes for Ugandans. “UDB is dedicated to supporting initiatives that improve health outcomes for Ugandans. This blood donation drive is a way for us to contribute to the national blood bank and support patients in need of transfusions. We as staff are enthusiastic about participating in this life-saving cause,” he remarked.
Research from the National Institute of Health highlights that access to safe blood is critical for maternal and neonatal care, as well as for treating injuries from emergencies such as accidents. The current shortage of blood banks in Uganda leads to preventable deaths, particularly among mothers and patients requiring urgent transfusions.
The blood donation drive by UDB and ATC Uganda is a timely and vital response to this pressing public health issue. Both organizations urge the public to participate in future donation drives to help save lives and improve health outcomes across the country.
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