The Katikiro of Buganda, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, has endorsed a landmark initiative to establish Uganda’s first-ever Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) facility, describing it as a game-changer for the country’s healthcare system.
The project spearheaded by the Joint Clinical Research Centre (JCRC) in partnership with Pearl Bank and Rotary Uganda aims to raise USD 4 million to bring specialized, life-saving treatment closer to home for thousands of Ugandans.
For years, patients battling sickle cell disease, leukemia, lymphoma, and other severe blood disorders have had to travel abroad in search of treatment, often at a prohibitive cost. The planned facility in Lubowa is expected to reverse this trend, offering hope and access to advanced care within the country.
Once completed, the centre will place Uganda among a select group of countries in the region offering bone marrow transplant services, with only one other such facility currently operating in Kenya. This development is expected to significantly boost Uganda’s position as a hub for specialized healthcare in East Africa.
Pearl Bank has committed Shs 200 million towards the initiative, signaling strong private sector support. To further mobilize resources, JCRC will introduce an online donation platform, enabling contributions through mobile money, Visa and Mastercard, QR codes, and direct bank deposits.
Rotary International has also taken a leading role in the campaign, with District Governors Geoffrey Martin Kitakule and Christine Kyeyune Kawooya, alongside Director-Elect Emmanuel Katongole, actively championing the fundraising drive.
Mayiga, known for his advocacy in health and social development, praised the partnership for its vision and potential impact, noting that the facility will not only save lives but also reduce the financial burden on Ugandan families.
JCRC Executive Director, Dr. Cissy Kityo, said the facility will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology to handle complex cases, particularly sickle cell disease, which continues to affect a significant portion of the population.
“This facility will not only provide treatment but also position Uganda as a centre of excellence for specialized care in the region,” she said, adding that while substantial progress has been made, an additional USD 4 million is required to complete the project and begin operations.
Pearl Bank Managing Director Julius Kakeeto described the partnership as both strategic and transformative, aligning with Uganda’s national development priorities, particularly the ATMS Strategy, which emphasizes science, technology, and innovation as key drivers of growth.
“Supporting the BMT Centre strengthens Uganda’s capacity in advanced medical research and specialized healthcare, while contributing to improved public health outcomes,” Kakeeto noted.
He added that the initiative also supports the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV), which seeks to accelerate socio-economic transformation and enhance the quality of life for Ugandans.
The project aligns with Pearl Bank’s Corporate Social Investment agenda, which focuses on Scale, Impact, and Sustainability across key sectors including health, education, and enterprise development.
Following its transition from PostBank Uganda to Pearl Bank, the institution says it is deepening its role in driving inclusive growth and supporting initiatives that create lasting impact.
