In response to Uganda’s ongoing blood shortage crisis, Housing Finance Bank (HFB), in partnership with Universal M. Enterprises – Affordable Housing, hosted its fourth consecutive blood donation drive at the HFB Head Office in Kololo. The initiative, open to the public, directly supports the Nakasero Blood Bank by providing critical blood supplies for emergency surgeries, maternal care, accident victims, and chronic illness treatment.
This year’s campaign aimed higher than ever, with organizers hoping to surpass the 2024 milestone, where the drive potentially saved up to 93 lives—based on the standard that one unit of blood can save three people. HFB and its partners continue to prioritize measurable health impact and community empowerment.
“We are a bank that cares about the communities in which we operate,” said John Baptist Kaweesi, Head of Mortgage and Consumer Banking at Housing Finance Bank. “Today’s event goes beyond banking, it is about saving lives. We are proud to be part of an initiative that gives people the opportunity to make a real difference.”
The event attracted a strong turnout from both HFB customers and the wider community, as members of the public responded to the urgent need and stepped forward to support the cause. “We are looking forward to hundreds of lives being saved through this initiative,” Mr. Kaweesi added.
The collaboration between HFB, Universal M. Enterprises – Affordable Housing, and Nakasero Blood Bank exemplifies the strength of cross-sector partnerships in tackling national health challenges. Housing Finance Bank and Universal M. Enterprises – Affordable Housing combined their networks, logistical resources, and corporate commitment, while Uganda Blood Transfusion Services provided medical expertise and on-site personnel to handle the donations safely and efficiently.
“We are proud to be long-term partners with Housing Finance Bank—not only in providing affordable housing to our clients but also in championing social corporate responsibility,” said Muffadal Yeolawala, Managing Director of Universal M. Enterprises – Affordable Housing. “This is the third or fourth drive we have done together, and we are committed to giving back to society in meaningful ways.”
Once processed by the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services, the blood collected will be distributed to hospitals across the country, strengthening Uganda’s healthcare system and contributing to its long-term sustainability.
Looking ahead, Housing Finance Bank plans to remain actively engaged in national health efforts, with more blood drives and community-centered initiatives already in the pipeline. The recurring nature of its partnership with Universal M. Enterprises – Affordable Housing and the Nakasero Blood Bank reflects a shared long-term vision of impact and a commitment to building a healthier, more resilient Uganda.
