Ecobank, in partnership with Malaria Free Uganda, the Ministry of Health, and other key stakeholders, have donated vital blood bank equipment worth UGX 1.3 billion to the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services.
This generous donation aims to enhance UBTS’s capacity to manage severe malaria-related anemia and other critical medical needs.
The donated includes, 2 double-door refrigerators, 4 platelet agitators and 4 floor preparative centrifuges.
These tools will significantly improve UBTS’s efficiency in blood collection, processing, and storage, ultimately supporting maternal health, emergency response for trauma victims, and malaria treatment.
Malaria remains a major public health concern in Uganda, with severe cases often leading to life-threatening anemia. The disease accounts for 30-50% of the country’s blood use, with over 12 million cases reported annually.
Ecobank’s Managing Director, Ms. Grace Muliisa, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s healthcare system. “This initiative aligns with Ecobank’s mission to champion impactful, sustainable healthcare initiatives,” she said.
The Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, praised the collaboration and urged partners and stakeholders to continue supporting the MFU Malaria Elimination Fund. “This will help sustain interventions that reduce the burden of malaria and strengthen public health systems,” she added.
Kenneth Mugisha, the Board Chairman for Malaria Free Uganda, highlighted the organization’s resource mobilization and advocacy role, acknowledging the importance of engaging partners to support National Malaria Control Division (NMCD)’s vision of ZERO MALARIA DEATHS.
“This equipment marks a significant step toward ensuring the availability of sufficient blood to manage severe malaria and avert preventable deaths. We thank Ecobank and all stakeholders for their continued commitment,” he said.