Building solutions firm Hima Cement has joined a list of companies who responded to a call for blood donation to support the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services (UBTS) curb the blood shortage that the country experienced.
The one-day blood donation drive was attended by staff members of Hima Cement and the public who turned up in large numbers to donate blood but also cheer their favourite clubs as Hima Heathens locked down Plascon Mongers at Kyadondo Rugby grounds on Saturday.
Ms Caroline Keezabu, the Hima Cement communications manager said they were able to collect 80 units of blood from the one-day blood donation drive which was also aimed at raising awareness and collecting blood for the Uganda Blood Bank.
UBTS at the beginning of the year made a rallying call for companies to join in helping to raise awareness but also help in filling the blood shortage that the country was experiencing.
Hima cement joins, Umeme, National Social Security Fund, Equity bank and many other companies that have since participated in blood donation drives to help
According to World Health Organization, (WHO), Uganda needs about 340,000 units of blood annually although less than 200,000 units are collected annually. It should be noted that only 1 percent of Uganda’s population is eligible to donate blood regularly do so, causing blood shortages.
Dr. Dorothy Kyeyune Byabazaire, the Executive Director at UBTS said they have so far collected enough blood to last the country up to mid this month. However, she encouraged the public to continue donating blood because there is always constant need for the blood.