Absa Bank Uganda has donated Shs 100 million to the Uganda Red Cross Society to support immediate relief efforts for households impacted by the recent collapse of the Lusanja Kiteezi landfill. This substantial donation will enhance the disaster response by funding the acquisition of crucial relief supplies for affected families.
During the donation handover, Absa Bank’s Managing Director, Mumba Kalifungwa, expressed deep sympathy for those affected by the disaster and emphasized the bank’s commitment to supporting the community in times of crisis. “We stand in solidarity with the families affected by this tragic incident. Our goal is to be a force for good within the communities we serve. I urge other private sector players and individuals to contribute however they can to alleviate the suffering caused by this tragedy,” Kalifungwa said.
The Kiteezi landfill collapse, triggered by heavy rainfall, has buried an undisclosed number of households. Rescue operations are currently underway.
Upon receiving the donation, Uganda Red Cross Society Secretary General Robert Kwesiga thanked Absa Bank for their timely and generous support. “I extend my heartfelt thanks to Mumba Kalifungwa and his team at Absa for their compassion and swift action. This donation is a significant expression of their commitment to humanitarian values, regardless of whether the affected individuals are their customers,” Kwesiga stated.
Kwesiga also highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Uganda Red Cross, which has been actively engaged in search and rescue operations since the incident occurred on Saturday. The organization is working tirelessly to save lives and provide dignity to the deceased.
“Our teams are on the ground conducting search and rescue operations and delivering relief support. The affected families urgently need food aid and essential non-food items to cope with the emergency. This generous support from Absa Bank will greatly assist in reducing human suffering and providing essential relief to those in need,” Kwesiga added.
According to the Uganda Red Cross, the funds from Absa Bank will be used to purchase essential home shelter kits, which will offer temporary shelter and basic household necessities for over 200 families affected by the landfill collapse.
