This morning, the Rotary family in Uganda proudly welcomed the Francesco Arezzo, President of Rotary International, to the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services (Nakasero Blood Bank).
The visit was more than a tour of facilities — it was a celebration of lives saved and hope restored through service.
For years, the Rotary Malaria Carnival has stood at the forefront of blood collection drives and resource mobilization to support both Nakasero and Mengo Blood Banks. What started as a campaign to fight malaria has grown into a powerful movement of compassion — mobilizing communities to donate blood, raise funds, and stand in solidarity with mothers, children, and families in need.
Behind every unit of blood is a story.
A mother surviving childbirth.
A child fighting severe anemia.
A road accident victim given a second chance at life.
Through Rotary’s partnership and support — including the provision of modern blood refrigerators, centrifuges, and platelet equipment — blood banks have increased their capacity to safely store and prepare lifesaving blood. But beyond the equipment and statistics lies something far greater: people serving people.
During the briefing, it was shared that blood collection and component preparation have significantly increased in the past financial year. These are not just numbers; they represent thousands of families who have kept their loved ones because someone chose to give.
President Arezzo commended the spirit of volunteerism, the dedication of health workers, and the unwavering commitment of Rotarians who continue to show up — whether at the Carnival grounds encouraging donors, at hospitals advocating for better systems, or in communities raising awareness.
The Rotary Malaria Carnival has proven that service is not an event — it is a movement. A movement where music, community, generosity, and purpose come together to save lives.
As the RI President continues his visit in Uganda, today’s stop at Nakasero stands as a powerful reminder that Rotary’s greatest impact is measured not only in projects, but in people.
When Rotarians act, lives are changed.
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