Kampala, Uganda: Ugandan-Nepalese businessman, Dr Sudhir Ruparelia and members of the Nepalese community in Uganda have donated blood in a show of solidarity with Ugandans, as the country marked the 71st birthday of Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II.
The drive, organised under the Non-Resident Nepali Association, was held at Acacia Mall in Kampala and mobilised dozens of donors, collecting dozens of units of blood for the Nakasero Blood Bank.
The initiative formed part of activities marking the Kabaka’s birthday and responded to his continued call for increased voluntary blood donation to support patients in need, particularly expectant mothers and emergency cases.
Solidarity Through Service
The Nepalese diaspora, including investors and residents in Uganda, coordinated the exercise as part of their broader humanitarian outreach, reinforcing ties between the two communities.
Officials from the Nakasero Blood Bank welcomed the donation, noting that each unit collected would contribute to saving lives amid persistent shortages in Uganda’s blood supply system.
Samuel Davis Wante from the Blood Bank said the Kabaka had consistently emphasized the importance of saving lives through voluntary blood donation. He commended the Nepalese community for heeding the call and showing solidarity with Ugandans.
“This gesture is a powerful demonstration of unity and humanity. The Kabaka has always encouraged life-saving initiatives like blood donation, especially to protect mothers and children. We are grateful to the Nepalese community for stepping forward,” Wante said.
Sudhir, who also serves as Nepal’s Honorary Consul in Uganda, commended the Nepalese community for turning up in large numbers and contributing to a cause that directly supports Uganda’s healthcare system.
He highlighted the persistent shortage of blood in Uganda, noting that the donation would go a long way in addressing critical gaps in the health system. “There is a real shortage of blood in the country, and every unit counts. We are proud that the Nepalese community has come together in large numbers to contribute to this noble cause,” Sudhir said.
Supporting National Health Needs
Uganda continues to face periodic blood shortages, with health authorities frequently appealing for voluntary donations to sustain critical medical services.
Organisers said the drive aligns with the Kabaka Birthday Run’s broader health advocacy agenda, which has increasingly incorporated blood donation and awareness campaigns alongside efforts to combat major public health challenges.
Participants described the exercise as a meaningful gesture of goodwill, reflecting the Nepalese community’s commitment to supporting Ugandan society beyond business and investment.
The Non-Resident Nepali Association has previously organised similar initiatives and continues to run health-focused programmes, including mobile blood donation campaigns in Nepal.
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