On April 11, 2025, the Hoima Regional Blood Bank opened its doors, marking far more than the inauguration of a building; it was a renewed lifeline for the Albertine region. Chronic blood shortages had long plagued hospitals, leaving families uncertain whether life-saving transfusions would be available during emergencies.
Uganda faces a critical challenge: the Uganda Blood Transfusion Service (UBTS) supplies blood to roughly 500 healthcare facilities daily but meets only 85% of the national demand. Maternal mortality remains a pressing concern, with 170 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2023, many of which are preventable with timely access to safe blood.
From Crisis to Capability
Before the new facility, Hoima’s blood bank operated in cramped, inadequate spaces. Blood collected locally had to travel over 200 kilometres to Nakasero in Kampala for processing, resulting in dangerous delays.
“The facility where we previously operated was extremely cramped. Storage for collected units was virtually nonexistent,” recalls Henry Benda, Hoima Regional Blood Bank team leader with 23 years of experience. “After each blood drive, we’d scramble to find space for our ‘bumper harvests,’ but there simply wasn’t any. This meant transporting units to other banks, which was risky in emergencies.”
UgIFT, with support from the World Bank and the Government of Uganda, stepped in with a state-of-the-art facility: modern cold rooms capable of storing up to 5,000 units, advanced processing equipment, ICT systems, and reliable vehicles to support outreach. Staffing has expanded to 13 officers, with more set to join, ensuring the bank’s operations are sustainable and efficient.
Real Impact on the Ground
The results have been immediate and dramatic. Monthly blood collection in Hoima has more than doubled from 1,250 units to over 2,700 units, with 2,781 units collected in July 2025 alone, supplying not only local hospitals but also facilities in Arua, Fort Portal, Soroti, and even Kampala.
“Before April 2025, we were really operating in crisis,” Henry admits. “Today, with our expanded cold room, we can store enough blood to meet local needs and support other regions. Hoima’s position is stronger than ever. The progress is truly extraordinary.”
The community response has been equally positive. Residents are stepping forward as donors, reassured by the professionalism and efficiency of the new facility.
“I came in yesterday, was fitted into the schedule, and was called back today. Everything was organised and professional,” shares 28-year-old Lawrence Ssunna, a Hoima resident and regular blood donor. “If someone hadn’t donated blood when my child was critically ill, I can’t imagine what would have happened. That’s why I continue to donate because I know I could be saving someone’s life.”
Hospitals no longer face severe shortages, and patients, particularly expectant mothers, children with acute anaemia, and accident victims, now have a significantly improved chance of survival. Every pint collected carries hope, and in Hoima, that hope now has a home.
Strategic and Sustainable Transformation
The Hoima Regional Blood Bank exemplifies the impact of strategic investment in healthcare infrastructure. Beyond storage, the facility supports training, outreach, and a reliable blood supply, directly contributing to Uganda’s goals of reducing maternal mortality and improving access to safe blood.
“UGIFT’s support didn’t just give us equipment; it gave us the ability to save lives every single day,” Henry emphasises.
This model demonstrates the effectiveness of collaboration between international donors, the government, and local communities. With sustained support, Hoima’s experience offers a blueprint for transforming healthcare delivery in other regions, proving that targeted investments can turn chronic shortages into surges of life-saving capacity.
Key Statistics:
Monthly Blood Collection: From 1,250 to over 2,700 units
July 2025 Collection: 2,781 units
Maternal Mortality Ratio (2023): 170 per 100,000 live births
UBTS Coverage: 85% of national needs
Healthcare Facilities Served: 500 daily
The Hoima Regional Blood Bank is more than a facility; it is a symbol of hope, resilience, and the power of investment in human life. With UgIFT and World Bank support, the Albertine region now boasts a reliable, efficient blood supply, where every donation counts and every life has a chance.
