Recent statistics from the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services (UBTS) have sounded the alarm regarding an impending blood shortage, driven by a growing demand for blood.
In a remarkable display of commitment to their slogan, ‘We’re on your side,’ I&M Bank Uganda set an inspiring example by organizing a two-day blood donation drive at their Kingdom Kampala branch, commencing on August 30, 2023. Collaborating closely with the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services, the banking institution extended invitations to neighbouring organizations, including the Equal Opportunity Commission, to participate in this noble endeavour.
The result of this compassionate effort was the collection of approximately 57 units of blood, marking the drive as a resounding success and exemplifying one of the bank’s core corporate social responsibility pillars – enabling giving.
“Recognizing that Uganda’s annual demand for 400,000 units of blood remains unmet, our commitment to community welfare drives us to take meaningful action. Through our involvement, we aspire to alleviate the blood shortage and potentially save lives. This blood donation initiative is in harmony with our dedication to enhancing the well-being of people in the communities we serve. We are eager to lead by example and extend a heartfelt invitation to our customers, neighbours, and well-wishers to join us in this noble cause,” stated Annette Nakiyaga, Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at I&M Bank.
Understanding the critical significance of maintaining a consistent and ample blood supply, particularly in a country like Uganda, which has witnessed a surge in road accidents and other health emergencies, is of paramount importance.
“This initiative by I&M Bank is highly commendable. It is common knowledge that we still require a significant amount of blood to address medical emergencies and save lives. The enthusiastic response over the course of two days is encouraging, and we implore more organizations to follow in the footsteps of I&M Bank by organizing similar blood donation drives. If everyone rallies behind this cause, countless lives can be preserved. Remember, it might be you or someone close to you in need of blood in the near future,” emphasized Duncan Rubabyanza, a blood donor recruiter at Nakasero.
Following the blood donation drive, staff members from the Equal Opportunities Commission, along with their hosts at I&M Bank, participated in a comprehensive awareness session on blood donation, shedding light on its manifold benefits.
According to the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services, the annual blood collection hovers around 300,000 units, which falls below the target set by the World Health Organization.
