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Kampala, Uganda | PATRICIA AKANKWATSA | The Mengo Rotary Blood Bank has bid farewell to its outgoing board members while warmly welcoming a fresh team ready to uphold the legacy of saving lives through blood donations.
The handover ceremony at Emin Pasha Hotel on September 2, was attended by prominent members of the community, medical professionals, and supporters. Officials said it was a symbol of continuity and commitment to the crucial mission of ensuring a stable and sufficient blood supply for those in need.
The outgoing board members shared their experiences and achievements during their tenure. They expressed their confidence in the incoming leadership and their belief in the enduring spirit of the Mengo Rotary Blood Bank.
Rotarian Ronald Kawaddwa, the outgoing board chair, thanked members for entrusting them with the work they did during their tenure.
“The outgoing board made a lot of innovations in finance and brand and communications. Humility is the new smart and I hope the new board will keep the good work going,” he said.
“It has been a privilege to serve this organization and witness the incredible impact it has on the lives of patients in need. We are passing the torch to a capable team, and we do not doubt that they will take this mission to greater heights.”
Kawaddwa said the newly appointed board members, a group of individuals with diverse backgrounds and a shared passion for humanitarian causes, articulated their commitment to building upon the organization’s remarkable legacy.
“We are humbled by the opportunity to lead the Mengo Rotary Blood Bank. Our goal is clear: to expand our outreach, engage the community, and work tirelessly to ensure a stable and accessible blood supply for those in need,” said Rotarian Timothy Basiima, the incoming new chairperson
The atmosphere was filled with optimism and enthusiasm as supporters and well-wishers applauded the old and new board members for their dedication to this lifesaving mission.
Dr Peter Kimbowa the Board Chairman of the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) who was also the guest of honour asked the new board to build a special new narrative, own the narrative and raise the visibility of the blood bank.
“We are going to start this at NSSF and we hope other companies follow. This all needs an aggressive investment of sourcing in funding, infrastructure and reinventing all the time,” Dr Kimbowa said.
“We want to diagnose the next challenges in blood donation. COVID-19 tested us. We should build a common agenda and engage stakeholders,” he said.
The chairman board of trustees of the Mengo Rotary Blood Bank Emmanuel Katongole, expressed gratitude to the outgoing board members for their outstanding service and welcomed the incoming leaders with open arms.
“Today, we celebrate a seamless transition of leadership, a testament to our commitment to saving lives. The Mengo Rotary Blood Bank will continue to be a beacon of hope, and together, we will make an even more significant impact on our community,” Katongole said.
As the sun set, it marked not only a transition of leadership but also the beginning of a new chapter for the Mengo Rotary Blood Bank.
“With renewed vigour and dedication, this organization stands poised to continue its noble mission of saving lives and strengthening the community through the generous act of blood donation.”
