Sickle cell warriors at Mukono General Hospital have received a much-needed lifeline following a generous donation of four wheelchairs and more than 2,000 sickle scan test kits from the Sarafina Sickle Cell Society, in partnership with U.S.–based organizations My Three Sicklers Foundation and Sickle Forward.
The donation, which aims to improve access to care and mobility for patients with severe complications, is a significant boost to one of the busiest sickle cell treatment units in the central region. It particularly targets the most vulnerable patients — those who have suffered strokes and are unable to move independently.
Joel Mugwanya, the Field Officer at Sarafina Sickle Cell Society, explained that the initiative was driven by the everyday struggles faced by families affected by sickle cell disease.
Among the beneficiaries is Lydia Mutesi, a single mother from Buyuki in Nama Subcounty, who says the donation has transformed her life.
Dr. Wyclif Kisinga, head of the Sickle Cell Clinic at Mukono General Hospital, revealed that the facility currently cares for over 900 patients battling the condition.
He added that mobility aids are not just tools for convenience but essential for restoring dignity, independence, and social inclusion, especially for children with disabilities caused by sickle cell complications.
In addition to wheelchairs, the Sarafina Sickle Cell Society delivered 2,220 sickle scan test kits to enhance early detection and diagnosis in the district.
Ten health facilities benefited from the consignment, including Mukono General Hospital and Health Centre IIIs in Kyabazala, Katoogo, Nakifuuma, Kasaawo, Goma, Sseta-Nazzigo, Mpunge, Kabanga, and Koja Health Centre IV.
Dr. Kisinga noted that infant screening and increased community awareness — spearheaded through collaborations with Sarafina Foundation — have resulted in a significant rise in diagnosed cases, enabling early intervention and management.
Despite the progress, Dr. Kisinga emphasized that much more remains to be done. He called upon government agencies, local leaders, and development partners to scale up support for the growing number of sickle cell warriors in Mukono District.
The Sarafina Sickle Cell Society has been at the forefront of advocacy and community support for sickle cell patients in central Uganda. Through their consistent outreach and partnership with both local and international organizations, they continue to restore hope to families grappling with the often-overlooked condition.
As donations like these reach the most affected, health workers and caregivers believe the battle against sickle cell disease — one of Uganda’s silent yet deadly health challenges — can be won through compassion, awareness, and sustained partnership.
