Uganda’s JCRC seeks USD4 million to build its first bone marrow transplant center

UGANDA— The Joint Clinical Research Center (JCRC) in Uganda has launched an urgent fundraising campaign to secure Shs14 billion (USD 4 million) for a groundbreaking healthcare project.

The organization plans to construct the country’s first dedicated facility for treating sickle cell disease and blood cancers, which will offer life-saving bone marrow transplants that are currently unavailable within Uganda’s borders.

Sickle cell disease stands as one of the most lethal hereditary conditions affecting Ugandans today.

 Health experts place Uganda fourth in Africa regarding the disease burden, with the Eastern region experiencing the highest prevalence rates.

The condition claims young lives at an alarming rate, as many affected children fail to reach their fifth birthday.

Current treatment options in the country focus primarily on managing symptoms rather than providing curative solutions.

Dr. Cissy Kityo Mutuluza, who serves as JCRC’s Executive Director, explained the financial burden families currently face.

She noted that Ugandan families must travel abroad to access bone-marrow transplants, which come with price tags that exceed what most citizens can afford.

The proposed facility would eliminate this barrier by bringing world-class treatment services to local patients.

Dr. Silver Mpima, a specialist in sickle cell treatment, emphasized the demanding nature of the disease. He explained that patients require frequent blood transfusions to maintain their health.

Even when patients show signs of stability, they need blood changes at least four times annually to ensure their survival.

JCRC has partnered with the Rotary Club of Kampala Breeze to make advanced treatment services accessible within the country.

District Governor Rtn. Godfrey Kitakule and other Rotary officials recently toured JCRC’s laboratories, where they confirmed their commitment to supporting the ambitious project.

Rtn. Joseph Ssemuwemba, who leads the Rotary Club of Kampala Breeze, characterized the initiative as essential for preventing families from depleting their life savings on overseas medical care.

The completed center will house comprehensive services under one roof, including advanced diagnostic tools, cutting-edge treatment options, and research capabilities for sickle cell disease and blood cancers.

This integrated approach promises to transform healthcare delivery for thousands of Ugandan families who currently face limited options when confronting these challenging conditions.