The Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, Friday officially commissioned the Hoima Regional Blood Bank in Kasingo Cell, Hoima City. This new facility is expected to improve healthcare services and save lives in the Bunyoro region by ensuring access to safe blood and blood products.
“This facility will greatly boost healthcare delivery and save lives in the region,” said Nabbanja during the event that was attended by other dignitaries including the Minister of Local Government, Hon. Raphael Magezi.
The Blood Bank will help with the collection, testing, processing and distribution of blood. It is part of the Government’s efforts to meet the growing demand for safe blood in Uganda.
The Prime Minister also commissioned regional blood banks in Arua and Soroti on the same day. These efforts are meant to strengthen health service delivery across the country.
In her remarks, the Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, said that a total of 398 Health Center IIIs were constructed and fully equipped across the country under the UGIFT and URMCHIP projects with support from the World Bank.
Similarly, she said the blood bank will go a long way in strengthening health service delivery not only in Hoima but the country as a whole.
“The Hoima facility was built to high hygiene and safety standards. It will ensure proper screening, blood grouping, and handling of all blood and blood products,” she added.
What is a Blood Bank?
A blood bank is a place where donated blood is collected, tested, stored, and prepared for use. Hospitals use this blood to treat patients who need it because of surgery, accidents, or illnesses. Blood banks help save lives by making sure the blood is safe and available when needed.
