Lira City, Uganda: The long-awaited Regional Blood Bank at Lira Regional Referral Hospital is now 98 per cent complete, raising hopes for improved emergency and maternal healthcare services across the Lango sub-region.
The Shs 9.6 billion facility, with capacity to process up to 48,000 units of blood annually, is expected to address chronic shortages that have strained hospitals in northern Uganda for years.
Constructed by the UPDF Engineering Brigade, the project commenced in March 2025 on land donated by Lira University. Officials say only finishing works and installation of specialised equipment remain before handover to the Uganda Blood Transfusion Service.
‘A Game Changer for the Region’
During a site inspection on Monday, Acting Hospital Director Dr Andrew Odur described the facility as transformative for Lango.
“For years, our hospital and surrounding districts have struggled with insufficient blood supplies, particularly during obstetric emergencies and accident cases,” Dr Odur said.
He noted that delays in accessing blood have sometimes forced referrals to distant facilities, increasing risks for critically ill patients.
“We have had situations where we depend on blood transported from other regions. That delay can mean the difference between life and death. With this facility, we shall drastically reduce such risks,” he added.
Dr Odur emphasised that alongside infrastructure, investment in skilled laboratory technologists and staff accommodation will be critical to ensure sustainability once the facility becomes operational.
Minister Aceng: ‘Access to Safe Blood is Essential’
The Minister of Health and Lira City Woman MP, Jane Ruth Aceng, welcomed the progress, saying the project aligns with government’s strategy to strengthen regional health systems.
“Access to safe blood is not optional; it is essential. It is critical for maternal health, surgical procedures, treatment of severe malaria and trauma care,” Dr Aceng said.
She commended the UPDF Engineering Brigade for adherence to timelines and assured that government will ensure the facility is fully equipped and operationalised without delay.
Dr Aceng also urged communities to actively participate in voluntary blood donation drives to sustain the centre’s operations once commissioned.
Regional Relief in Sight
Local leaders believe the new blood bank will significantly reduce reliance on distant regional centres and improve emergency response times.
Once commissioned, the facility is expected to serve thousands of patients annually across Lango, strengthening the referral system and reducing preventable deaths linked to blood shortages.
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
