Mugabe R
On Friday, January 18, 2024, the Lions Club of Rukungiri District 411B, in collaboration with the Uganda Blood Bank Rukungiri Branch and Karoli Lwanga Nyakibale Hospital, successfully concluded a two-day free medical camp.
The camp, held at Rukungiri Central Market in Kinyasano Ward, Western Division, Rukungiri Municipality, achieved significant milestones. A total of 75 units of blood were harvested, benefiting from the collaboration between the Lions Club and the Uganda Blood Bank. Additionally, 73 individuals received free eye care services and eyeglasses, while 202 people underwent comprehensive screening for hypertension, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS testing and counseling.
Tushemereirwe Honest Kyomukama, a second-hand clothes dealer on Market Street, Karegyesa Road, shared her experience as a 13-time blood donor. She emphasized the importance of blood donation, citing how her contributions had directly impacted her father’s ability to receive urgent and free blood during a critical condition.
Ndyarugayo Frank, a resident of Ruhububa Cell, Ndere Parish, Ruhinda Sub County, Rukungiri District, expressed gratitude for the general services he received at no cost, services he otherwise wouldn’t have been able to afford.
Mugarura Emmanuel, the manager of the Uganda Blood Bank Rukungiri Branch, expressed appreciation for the support from the Lions Club of Rukungiri and Karoli Lwanga Nyakibale Hospital. He highlighted that the quality and quantity of blood collected during the event would help meet the demand during the holiday period, particularly for students.
Muhwezi Edson Mpirime, the Red Cross Board Chairperson overseeing Rukungiri and Kanungu Districts, encouraged the community to embrace blood donation to save lives, particularly of expectant mothers, malaria patients, and accident victims. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing blood-boosting foods such as greens and raw edible cereals.
Lion MJF Byarugaba Conerius, the President of the Lions Club of Rukungiri, expressed gratitude for the significant turnout that contributed to the success of the medical camp. He urged the community to continue supporting the activities of the Lions Club, emphasizing their commitment to elevating the standards of living in the region.
