Buganda Kingdom has called on all subjects of the Kabaka to join the fight against Uganda’s persistent blood shortage by donating blood regularly, describing it as both a life-saving gesture and a civic responsibility.
This appeal was made during the Kingdom’s commemoration of World Blood Donor Day on June 14 at Bulange, Mengo.
The event concluded a five-day health campaign conducted in partnership with the Kabaka Foundation and the Buganda Ministry of Health, which saw mobile units traverse several counties and communities.
Speaking at the function, Mengo's minister social services (education and health) Cotilda Nakate said regular blood donations are critical for emergency response and patient care, particularly for accident victims, expectant mothers, and patients suffering from conditions such as sickle cell disease.
“Blood is a lifeline, and donating it is the highest form of solidarity,” Nakate said.
“We must keep in mind that many lives depend on it. Our people, especially the youth, should embrace this cause for the future of our Kingdom and country.”
She also encouraged healthier lifestyles among citizens to increase the pool of eligible donors, noting that conditions like malaria and HIV can disqualify individuals from giving blood.
Nakate announced that the Kingdom would prioritize youth-targeted health initiatives in its forthcoming health budget.
Representing Uganda Blood Transfusion Services, William Mugisha commended the Kingdom’s leadership for consistently championing health campaigns.
“World Blood Donor Day is not just a celebration. It’s a reminder of the urgent, ongoing need for blood,” Mugisha said.
“We deeply appreciate the Kingdom’s commitment and leadership in encouraging blood donations. Their efforts have made a remarkable contribution at the national level.”
Hundreds of people, including students, health workers, and members of the armed forces, attended the event, with many stepping forward to donate blood on-site.
The drive surpassed its goal of collecting 300 units, a success officials attributed to strong grassroots mobilization.
Mobile blood donation units were dispatched on June 10 across the Kingdom, culminating in the June 14 celebration in Mengo.
Throughout the week, the drive was marked by community enthusiasm, ceremonial music, and the steady hum of medical activity.
As the Kingdom closed its campaign, Nakate urged citizens to view blood donation not as a one-time act, but as a continuous civic duty.
“The future of our people depends on how much we are willing to care for one another,” she said.
World Blood Donor Day is observed annually on June 14 to recognize voluntary, unpaid blood donors and raise awareness about the importance of regular donations to ensure a safe and sufficient blood supply.