Uganda Red Cross Society Launches Humanitarian Response Fund to Address Emerging Challenges

*By John Kusolo*

The Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) has launched a groundbreaking Humanitarian Response Fund to enhance its capacity to respond to emergencies across the country. The launch, led by URCS Secretary General Robert Kwesiga, highlighted the organization's 60-year legacy of humanitarian service and the pressing need for a robust funding mechanism to address Uganda's complex humanitarian landscape.

A Legacy of Service

URCS, established under the Red Cross Act (Cap 30), is a pivotal institution in Uganda's humanitarian sector. "The 60 years of the Red Cross work in Uganda have been defined by trying to do more and better," Kwesiga remarked. The organization has consistently delivered essential services during crises, earning the trust and support of communities nationwide.

However, Uganda faces an evolving array of emergencies, including pandemics, road crashes, starvation, and blood shortages. These crises significantly strain URCS resources, underscoring the need for a dedicated fund to support its interventions before, during, and after emergencies.

*A Grim Reality*

Kwesiga painted a sobering picture of the challenges Uganda faces. He noted that pandemics and epidemics are on the rise, devastating lives and communities. Additionally, road crashes claim an average of 13 lives daily, compounding the nation's humanitarian needs. “We need a fund in place to support us before, during, and after emergencies,” he emphasized.

*Ensuring Accountability*

The Humanitarian Response Fund is designed to operate with transparency and accountability. Global auditing firm Price Waterhouse Coopers (PWC) will conduct regular audits to ensure the proper management of the fund. A distinguished Board of Trustees has also been appointed to oversee the fund’s operations. The board members include:

Dr. Peter Kimbowa

Elly Karuhanga

Grace Mullisa

Judy Rugasira

Zhang Hao

Key Areas of Support

The fund will prioritize critical areas that align with URCS’s mandate and Uganda's pressing needs. These include:

First Aid and Ambulance Services – Enhancing emergency response capabilities.

Blood Donor Recruitment – Addressing chronic blood shortages in health facilities.

Sustainability and Climate Action – Mitigating climate change impacts on vulnerable communities.

Disaster Preparedness – Building resilience against natural and man-made disasters.

Pandemics and Epidemics Response – Strengthening health systems to combat outbreaks.

Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) – Improving access to clean water and sanitation facilities.

Keep a Girl in School Initiative – Supporting menstrual hygiene management to reduce school dropout rates among girls.

Youth and Women Empowerment – Creating opportunities for vulnerable groups to thrive.

*A Call to Action*

Kwesiga concluded his remarks with a heartfelt appeal to the public and stakeholders: “The global mandate that we can harness is that Uganda Red Cross Society believes that together with you, we can make a difference. Humanity needs you. Join us, donate to save lives.”

This call to action reflects the URCS’s belief in collective responsibility and the power of partnerships to transform lives. By contributing to the Humanitarian Response Fund, individuals and organizations can play an active role in saving lives and building a resilient Uganda.

The Uganda Red Cross Society remains committed to its mission of alleviating human suffering and improving the well-being of the most vulnerable. Through this new fund, it aims to achieve even greater impact in its quest to make a difference in the lives of millions.