The Joint Clinical Research Center (JCRC) has launched an urgent appeal for USD 4 million(approximately shs15.2 billion) to establish a state-of-the-art treatment facility dedicated to managing Sickle Cell Disease and blood cancers in Uganda.
The proposed centre will also provide bone-marrow transplant services, a life-saving procedure currently unavailable in the country.
Sickle Cell Disease remains one of Uganda’s deadliest hereditary conditions, with the highest prevalence in the Eastern region.
Health experts rank Uganda fourth in Africa in terms of disease burden. Many affected children struggle to survive beyond the age of five, while patients often rely on treatments that only manage symptoms rather than offer a cure.
Dr. Cissy Kityo Mutuluza, JCRC Executive Director, highlighted that the absence of local bone-marrow transplant services forces families to seek treatment abroad at costs beyond most Ugandans’ reach. Dr. Silver Mpima, a Sickle Cell specialist, noted that patients require regular blood transfusions, at least four times a year, to survive.
In an effort to enhance care and eventually eliminate Sickle Cell Disease in Uganda, JCRC has partnered with the Rotary Club of Kampala Breeze. Rotary leaders, including district officials, toured JCRC laboratories that provide diagnostics and research for viral, cancer, and blood-related conditions.
Rtn. Godfrey Kitakule, District Governor for Uganda and Tanzania, affirmed Rotary’s commitment to expanding access to advanced treatment locally.
“We are committed to ensuring people gain access to better and more affordable treatment,” he said. Dr. Kityo added, “With USD 4 million, we can build a world-class facility and offer bone-marrow treatment right here at home.”
Rtn. Joseph Ssemuwemba, President of the Rotary Club of Kampala Breeze, emphasized the urgent need for intervention.
“We cannot sit back and watch people die or spend life savings seeking care abroad. This project is necessary,” he said.
If funding targets are met, Uganda could soon join a growing list of African countries offering bone-marrow transplants, transforming the landscape of Sickle Cell and cancer care, and offering hope to thousands of affected families.
