Negative attitude towards blood donation in Masindi worries Hoima Regional Blood Bank

Masindi: Health officials have raised concern over the low turnout of blood donors in Masindi District, warning that the negative attitude towards blood donation is contributing to persistent blood shortages in health facilities across the Bunyoro sub-region.

The concern was raised by Dr. Henry Mutegeki from the Hoima Regional Blood Bank during a blood donation drive organized by journalists under the Greater Masindi Media Practitioners Association (GMEPA). The exercise brought together journalists from Masindi, Buliisa, and Kiryandongo districts as part of activities marking the belated World Press Freedom Day celebrations held in Masindi Town on Saturday, June 6, 2026.

Dr. Mutegeki revealed that despite regular blood collection campaigns conducted across the Bunyoro region, Masindi continues to register the lowest number of blood donors compared to other districts.

“Our records show that Greater Kibaale, comprising Kagadi, Kakumiro and Kibaale districts, contributes about 85 percent of the required blood donations, while Hoima contributes around 75 percent. Unfortunately, Masindi remains at less than 30 percent,” Dr. Mutegeki said.

He explained that the low response to blood donation campaigns has resulted in frequent shortages, affecting patients who require blood transfusions due to various medical conditions.

“Many people need blood every day because of emergencies, accidents, surgeries and other health conditions. When people do not donate, lives are put at risk,” he added.

Dr. Mutegeki commended journalists for organizing the donation exercise and appealed for similar initiatives to be held annually to help bridge the blood deficit in the region.

The blood drive attracted support from several organizations, including Kinyara Sugar Limited. Speaking during the event, the company’s Communications Manager, Francis Mugerwa, said Kinyara supported the initiative because of the critical role blood plays in saving lives.

“Blood is life. We supported this exercise because many people depend on blood transfusions to survive, and we are committed to supporting such noble causes,” Mugerwa said.

A total of 122 units of blood were collected during the exercise, with journalists joining other members of the public in donating blood. Several journalists who participated emphasized the importance of voluntary blood donation in saving lives and supporting healthcare services.

GMEPA President Josam Gucwaki said the association had registered a number of achievements over the years but noted that journalists continue to face challenges, including public mistrust and difficulties accessing information from some duty bearers.

“Journalists still face negative perceptions from some sections of the public, while denial of information by some leaders continues to complicate our work,” Gucwaki noted.

The event was also attended by security and political leaders who pledged continued support for the media fraternity.

Speaking on behalf of the Albertine North Regional Police Commander, ASP Solomon Mugisa, the Regional Community Liaison Officer, praised the strong working relationship between the police and journalists.

“The cordial relationship between the police and the media has greatly contributed to stability in the region, and we shall continue working together,” Mugisa said.

Masindi Municipality Mayor Rogers Amanyire pledged to donate a computer to GMEPA and promised to strengthen collaboration with journalists in promoting accountability and exposing wrongdoing in society.

“The media remains an important tool in restoring sanity in society by exposing evil-minded individuals and promoting transparency,” Amanyire said.

The chief guest, the Member of Parliament for Buruli County, urged journalists to maintain professionalism and uphold ethical standards in their reporting.

“Journalists should remain professional, adhere to their code of conduct and observe broadcasting standards at all times,” the legislator advised.

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