UPDF Soldiers in Somalia Mark World Blood Donor Day

Ugandan troops serving under the United Nations Guard Unit XI (UNGU XI) in Somalia joined the international community in commemorating World Blood Donor Day with a life-saving blood donation drive at the Level One Field Hospital in Mogadishu.

Held under the theme “Give Blood, Give Hope – Together We Save Lives”, the initiative saw UPDF personnel voluntarily donate blood, reaffirming their dedication to humanitarian service and solidarity with host communities.

Lt Col Peter Ruyogoza Barigye, Commanding Officer of UNGU XI, said the exercise was a meaningful tribute to the lifesaving efforts of blood donors worldwide. 

“This campaign recognises the critical role blood donors play in saving lives. I encourage all our officers and troops to take part in this life-saving initiative, just as other peacekeepers are doing around the world,” he said.

The event was organised in collaboration with the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) Sector One Level Two Field Hospital.

Captain Dr Andrew Namaulula, the contingent’s medical officer, applauded the donors for their selflessness.

 “The blood collected will be essential in providing urgent medical care to patients at AUSSOM facilities, the UNGU Medical Unit, and other hospitals across Somalia,” he said.

Among the participants was Lt Abubakar Yasin Ssempala, who reflected on the importance of the gesture. “As a United Nations peacekeeper, I believe that donating blood is a simple yet powerful gesture that can make a profound difference in someone’s life,” he said.

The successful drive reinforced the UPDF’s commitment to humanitarian values and is expected to enhance access to critical medical care for those in need across Somalia.