We are determined to complete the Blood Bank by January 2017

It is now more than evident that the Rotary Blood Bank Project building at Mengo Hospital will be completed by January 2017.

The team headed by PDG Emmanuel Katongole is working around the clock to ensure that come 31st January the building will be ready. Governor Emmanuel is moving from club to club raising the much more needed funds to make this project a reality.  At club visits,  he makes a very moving talk about the need for blood in this country. When you listen  to his story,  you are moved to dig deep down your pockets to contribute to this noble cause. Not even a  miser can refuse to contribute.

Rotary Blood Bank at Mengo

Thanks to District Governor Elect Ken Wycliffe Mugisha’s talent of fundraising. He has mastered  the art of raising funds from rotarians,  Rotaractors, interactors and guests in a very friendly manner.  DGE Ken knows almost every single rotarian in this country by both first and second name.  This is a rare talent the creator bestowed upon him.  There is no way you can fail to donate to the cause when DGE Ken has called you by name and the Rotary club you subscribe to.

So  far the team has visited 14 clubs and the response has been wonderful.  Close to 1bn shillings is required for plastering,   doors, windows,  electrical installation and plumbing work. From the 14 clubs visited as at 13th November,  close to 400m shillings had been pledged.  These clubs included Muyenga,  Kampala South, Namugongo, Kyengera, Kampala West,  Kampala Ssesse,  Naalya, Port Bell, Kisugu, Bukoto,  Muyenga Breeze, Kiwaatule,  Bugoloobi Morning tide,  Bukoto and Kampala Arch. Thank you so much for your contributions.

The team is not stopping  at those 14 clubs but each and every club in this country  will have an opportunity to give something  for the Blood Bank.  This is our time to close the blood shortage gap in the country.  As you might be aware,  Uganda needs an annual blood supply of 350,000 units according to the World Health Organisation but Uganda Blood Transfusion Service only manages to collect 250,000 units per year leaving a deficit of 100,000 units. It is now you and me and all people of good will to help bridging  this gap.

An artistic Impression of the Rotary Blood Bank

In February next year, between 26th and 29th,  RI President John Germ will visit Uganda and he will officially open the Blood Bank.
Plastering is going on well and some of the windows have been delivered to the site. There’s hope that work will be completed as per schedule.

The Rotary Foundation recently  approved a grant worth about $250,000 to buy the first phase of equipment for our Blood Bank. The equipment will be in the country before Christmas this year so that they are fixed and the Blood  Bank starts operation as soon as RI President commissions it.

“ I am on my knees as I say thank you so very much team. I cannot thank you enough but to say that may the almighty God shower you with choicest blessings for being champions of making the world a better place to live in.” says PDG Emmanuel Katongole.