Vivo Energy Uganda, the company that distributes and markets Shell-branded fuels and lubricants in Uganda, in collaboration with Uganda Blood Transfusion Services (UBTS) and other partners, is excited to announce its nationwide blood collection drive to mobilise blood amid the ever-growing demand in hospitals across the country.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) Uganda has an annual demand of about 450,000 units of blood but falls short by over 30 percent of the required units. The Organisation recommends that 1 percent of blood be collected annually from the population.
Recognising this pressing need, Vivo Energy Uganda is launching a blood donation drive titled “Fuelling Hope” at Shell service stations nationwide, starting this September. This initiative aims to raise public awareness about the importance of blood donation, encourage regular participation among young people and the public in support of closing the gap in Uganda’s annual blood collection target, while leveraging its Shell service stations as community donation hubs for the next twelve months.
According to Valery Okecho, the Corporate Communications Manager at Vivo Energy Uganda, the company is excited to join forces with the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services on this critical initiative. The partnership is in line with the organisation’s community investment priorities, namely healthcare, education, and renewable energy.
“Our blood donation drives will not only help bridge the gap in Uganda’s blood supply but also promote a culture of regular donation among young people and the broader community. A blood donation is a selfless act that can save a child with severe anaemia, a mother experiencing complications during childbirth, or a patient undergoing surgery. We are proud to partner with Uganda Blood Transfusion Services to encourage voluntary, unpaid blood donations and make a positive impact,” said Mr. Okecho.
Joanita Mukasa Menya, Managing Director at Vivo Energy Uganda, emphasised the importance of the “Fuelling Hope” initiative: “Safe blood is essential for countless medical procedures, yet it can only be obtained through voluntary donations. We encourage all eligible individuals to participate in these blood drives and help bridge this critical gap.”
Mrs. Menya added, “At Vivo Energy Uganda, we are committed to the health and well-being of our community. By partnering with the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services and other stakeholders, we aim to make a significant impact on the availability of blood in Uganda. We invite everyone to join us in this life-saving mission.”
Dr. Dorothy Kyeyune Byabazaire, the Executive Director of the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services, expressed gratitude, stating, “This blood drive shall provide the public with the opportunity to donate blood and save lives. We hope to collect a significant amount of blood and anticipate a huge number of people participating at the different Shell locations. We are thankful to Vivo Energy Uganda for providing the space and creating a blood donation platform; it speaks volumes about the kind of organisation they are.”
Dr. Charles Olaro, Director of Curative Services at the Ministry of Health, who represented the Minister of Health, said, “Access to safe and sufficient blood is a fundamental component of any healthcare system, and this initiative by Vivo Energy Uganda is a commendable step towards strengthening our national blood supply. By bringing blood donation closer to the community through their extensive network of Shell service stations, they are not only making it more convenient for citizens to donate but are also fostering a culture of regular, voluntary blood donation. This collaboration sets a powerful example of how private sector partnerships can support public health goals, and I encourage all Ugandans to participate in this life-saving effort.”
He added, “We have seen firsthand the positive impact of such initiatives, especially during times of crisis like the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Blood donations were crucial in saving countless lives, and this campaign will help ensure a steady supply for patients in need of blood transfusions. We are grateful to Vivo Energy for their dedication to improving the health and well-being of our communities.”
This campaign also serves as an excellent opportunity to thank blood donors worldwide for their life-saving contributions and highlight the ongoing need for regular, unpaid blood donations. These efforts ensure universal access to safe blood transfusions, particularly in Uganda, where current donations fall short of the national target.
With over 10,000 vehicles visiting Shell stations nationwide daily, this initiative provides a substantial platform to meet the country’s blood collection requirements and make a significant impact on the nation’s healthcare system.
