The Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) has partnered with the Buganda Kingdom to provide free health services to thousands of vulnerable people during the “Tubeere Balamu” health camp held at Muteesa II Stadium in Wankulukuku.
The outreach, part of an 18-camp health campaign led by the Kabaka Foundation and championed by His Majesty the Kabaka of Buganda, HRH Ronald Fredrick Muwenda Mutebi II, aims to improve access to health care across the Buganda region through prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment.
During the Kyaddondo County health camp, attendees received a wide range of services including HIV testing and counseling, dental and eye checkups, screening for non-communicable diseases, general medical treatment, reproductive health education, mental health support, and blood donation.
URCS played a key role by supporting blood donation efforts in partnership with the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services (UBTS) and . The Society mobilized donors, raised awareness about voluntary blood donation, and collected much-needed blood to address persistent shortages in the country.
Sarah Mutegombwa, URCS Manager for Blood Donor Recruitment, emphasized the importance of bringing blood services directly to communities.
“Access to safe blood saves lives every day—during childbirth, surgeries, emergencies, and for patients with chronic illnesses. Community health camps like these are crucial for reaching underserved populations and promoting a culture of voluntary blood donation,” Mutegombwa said.
URCS also promoted its Grace Pads under the “Keep a Girl in School” initiative, aiming to improve menstrual hygiene for over 50,000 vulnerable girls. In addition, the National Society showcased its Commercial First Aid and Ambulance services and conducted membership recruitment.
The Kabaka’s message, delivered by Omulangira David Kintu Wasajja, thanked URCS and other partners for their support.
“We appreciate Uganda Red Cross and all partners for helping us deliver quality health services to our people. Health is a right, not a privilege, and we encourage our subjects to take advantage of these opportunities,” the message read.
Buganda Kingdom Prime Minister, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, urged the public to embrace preventive health care and change unhealthy habits.
“Excessive alcohol consumption and poor eating habits are contributing to rising health problems. These camps provide a chance for our people to know their health status and adopt healthier lifestyles,” Mayiga said.
Initiated in 2017, the Tubeere Balamu campaign has grown into one of the Kingdom’s flagship programs supporting vulnerable communities. It brings together partners including Uganda Red Cross Society, Rotary, Uganda Cancer Institute, AIDS Information Centre, Eye Care Foundation, Mengo Hospital, and others.
URCS’s involvement reflects its commitment to improving the health and well-being of underserved communities through grassroots outreach. The organization continues to integrate blood donor mobilization and menstrual hygiene education in schools, markets, places of worship, and cultural events.
With four of the 18 planned camps already completed, the partnership between URCS and the Buganda Kingdom highlights the value of collaboration in addressing Uganda’s healthcare challenges and delivering lifesaving services where they are most needed.