The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | As health centres nationwide grapple with the challenge of inadequate blood transfusion services, a crucial need for volunteer donors has emerged. Addressing this pressing issue is I&M Bank, which has forged a commendable partnership with the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services (UBTS).
Over the past two days, the front yard of the Kingdom Kampala I&M Bank offices buzzed with activity as a blood donation drive unfolded, garnering support from UBTS and I&M Bank officials. The initiative successfully collected 100 units of blood. The drive extended to the I&M Bank Jinja City Branch on Plot 8 Scindia Road, where the public responded positively.
Barbara Adupo Irene, a representative from the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services, expressed gratitude, stating, “This blood drive has provided the public with the opportunity to donate blood and save lives, making it a success. We have collected a significant amount of blood, and the turnout has been encouraging. We are thankful to I&M Bank for providing the space and creating a blood donation platform; it speaks volumes about the kind of organization they are,”
For I&M Bank, the symbiotic relationship between business prosperity and societal well-being is evident in initiatives like the blood donation drive. Aligning with the mission of the I&M Foundation, the bank aims to strengthen partnerships for sustainable community development.
Annette Nakiyaga, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at I&M Bank, emphasized the importance of such drives, stating, “The decision to host a blood drive ensures that patients in need of treatment receive the vital support they require. Different patients, including those with conditions like cancer, premature babies, accident victims, burns, and other critical situations, benefit from blood donations,”
I&M Bank recognizes the dependence of these patients on the public’s generosity, prompting us to coordinate blood donation drives to ensure a reliable blood supply,”
Jinja City Branch Manager, Daniel Cyprian Waiswa, expressed optimism that the blood donation drive is a way of giving back to clients and the public for entrusting and choosing I&M Bank. The two-day event at the Jinja City Branch collected 90 units of blood.
Joseph Kakaire, a participant in the exercise, stressed the importance of raising awareness about blood donation.
“Sickle cell patients and expectant mothers in need of blood during childbirth are just a few examples of those who require this life-saving resource. I have donated blood 12 times and feel I have contributed to saving 12 lives in hospitals. I urge everyone to do the same,” he shared.
Uganda Blood Transfusion Services has consistently emphasized the urgent need for more blood. Their plea extends to the government and key stakeholders, urging them to explore additional ways to boost blood donation efforts and address the country’s blood shortage.
