NCBA, UBTS join forces to tackle Uganda’s critical blood shortage

KAMPALA - NCBA Bank Uganda has joined forces with the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services (UBTS) to conduct a two-day blood donation campaign aimed at bridging Uganda’s national blood supply gap.

Uganda faces a shortage of blood, with the national supply meeting only about 70% of demand, leaving a 30% shortfall. This deficit puts thousands of lives at risk annually, particularly pregnant women, trauma victims, and children with severe anaemia, among others.

Mark Muyobo, NCBA Bank chief executive officer, said the campaign is targeting at least 200 blood donors, with spaces at four of their branches – Rwenzori, Nakasero, Village Mall, and Forest Mall.

He said UBTS personnel will be on site with mobile donation units, enabling donors to give safely and conveniently during their daily routines.

“We believe financial stability and community wellness go hand-in-hand. This is why we are determined to make a tangible difference where it matters most. By bringing donation centers to our most accessible branches, we provide a simple, accessible act of care that literally saves lives and strengthens our communities,” Muyobo said.

He added that the initiative is a core part of NCBA’s broader corporate social responsibility agenda, aligned with the bank’s global “Change the Story” sustainability framework, which emphasises meaningful social and environmental impact.

The campaign also highlights NCBA’s philosophy of inspiring greatness and promoting community wellness through practical, life-saving contributions.

Muyobo said regular blood donations are critical not only for saving lives but also for strengthening Uganda’s healthcare resilience. He said by creating awareness, dispelling myths, and improving accessibility, NCBA and UBTS aim to empower more Ugandans to actively participate in preventing avoidable deaths and ensuring a stable, safe blood supply.

Speaking at the launch, Nelly Wainaina, NCBA Group Director of Marketing, Communications and Citizenship, reaffirmed the Bank’s purpose and commitment to community well-being, saying:

“At NCBA, we believe in going beyond banking- we invest in people, in health, and in the future of our communities. Our collaboration with UBTS reflects the power of partnership in saving lives. This campaign is yet another example of how NCBA is Changing the Story– building stronger, healthier, and more connected communities. Every drop counts. Let’s show what’s possible when we come together with heart. Let’s go for it, and together, let’s Change the Story.”

Through this partnership, NCBA is merging corporate social responsibility with tangible community impact, establishing a scalable model for future health-focused initiatives and strengthening long-term collaboration with UBTS.

Esther Awori from UTBS commended the bank for the partnership, which she says has come in handy ahead of the long school holidays and the busy festive season.