Stanbic Bank Uganda has donated medical equipment worth UGX 20 million to support the newly constructed Mama Kariisa Maternity Ward Project at Rubaare Health Centre IV. The donation includes eight modern patient beds, two delivery beds, and 100 mama kits aimed at improving safe childbirth and postpartum care.
The maternity ward was constructed in memory of the late Hasiinah Kariisa, mother of businessman and Rotarian Kin Kariisa, as part of efforts to expand access to quality healthcare in underserved communities.
Presiding over the handover as Guest of Honor, the Minister of State for Health (General Duties), Hanifa Kawooya, lauded the initiative. She emphasized that such investments in maternal health infrastructure are critical to reducing preventable deaths and improving outcomes for mothers and babies.
“I commend the Kariisa family, Stanbic Bank, and the Rotary Club of Kigo for this noble gesture,” Kawooya said.
She said the government is committed to supporting the facility and will prioritize installation of an operating theatre to complement existing services.
Speaking on behalf of the bank, the Manager for Corporate Social Investment, Diana Ondoga, said the initiative aligns with the bank’s mission to support national development.
“Uganda is our home, and we are committed to driving its growth. Supporting maternal health is one of the most impactful ways we can invest in the future of our communities,” Ondoga said.
Since 2021, Stanbic Bank has donated over 23,000 mama kits and crucial medical supplies to 85 health facilities across Uganda.
These include Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Rukoki Hospital in Kasese, Nyantambooma Health Centre IV in Kabarole, Adjumani Hospital, Mpuugwe Health Center in Masaka, Gombe Hospital in Mpigi, Apoi Health Centre III in Apac District among others.
“Our work in here in Ntungamo and beyond also aligns with global development priorities, including the Sustainable Development Goals on Good Health and Well-being, Gender Equality, and Partnerships for the Goals,” Adrine Bright Twesigye the Stanbic Bank Ntungamo branch manager said.
Kin Kariisa expressed gratitude to Stanbic Bank and Rotary for supporting a project close to his heart.
“This maternity ward is deeply personal to me. It represents not just a tribute to my mother, but a commitment to ensuring that mothers in rural Uganda have access to dignified and safe healthcare services,” he said.
Emmanuel Katongole, Rotarian and business leader, said improving maternal health remains a top priority for the Rotary Club movement.
District health officials said the upgraded facility is expected to ease congestion, improve service delivery, and reduce maternal and neonatal mortality rates in the area.