By Jumah Kakomo
Bliss GVS Pharmaceuticals, one of the leading healthcare company, has stepped up its efforts in the fight against malaria by donating malaria treatment drugs valued at UGX 35 million (approximately USD 9,500) to the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). The donation, aimed at strengthening KCCA’s malaria control program, was handed over in a ceremony held at KCCA’s headquarters on Wednesday.
The donation was presented by Bliss GVS Pharmaceuticals’ Country Manager, Reddy Ramesh, accompanied by the company’s local staff, to KCCA’s Acting Director of Public Health, Dr. Sarah Zalwango. The generous contribution underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to addressing public health challenges and supporting healthcare initiatives in Uganda.
In his remarks, Reddy Ramesh emphasized that the donation is part of the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative to combat malaria and improve access to quality healthcare. “Everyone deserves access to quality healthcare, and we are committed to making a positive impact in the communities we serve,” Ramesh stated.
Dr. Sarah Zalwango expressed her appreciation for the donation, recognizing the significant role it will play in the ongoing efforts to control malaria in the capital. “This generous contribution will go a long way in supporting our efforts to control malaria in Kampala,” Dr. Zalwango said. “We appreciate Bliss GVS Pharmaceuticals’ commitment to improving public health.”
However, Dr. Zalwango also highlighted the continued risks of malaria in Kampala, pointing out that the city remains a hotspot for transmission due to the prevalence of mosquito breeding sites. She stressed the importance of sustained malaria control measures, including eliminating breeding sites, distributing insecticide-treated nets, and conducting indoor residual spraying.
“Malaria remains a significant public health threat in Uganda, and we must continue our efforts to combat the disease,” Dr. Zalwango added. “At KCCA, we are working closely with health authorities and community leaders to implement targeted interventions that will make a meaningful impact.”
The donation is seen as a key example of the private sector’s crucial role in public health efforts, with Dr. Zalwango acknowledging that partnerships like this one between Bliss GVS Pharmaceuticals and KCCA are vital in reducing the burden of malaria in the city.
In addition to the malaria donation, Christopher Oundo, the Supervisor of Health Services at KCCA, also took the opportunity to encourage parents to take part in the ongoing “Big Catch Up Immunization Campaign.” The campaign aims to increase vaccination coverage, particularly for children under the age of 14, and address gaps in immunization services.
“Immunization is one of the most effective ways to prevent diseases and save lives,” Oundo said. “We urge all parents to prioritize their children’s health and ensure they receive timely immunizations.”
KCCA has identified areas with low immunization rates and is working with local health centers to provide more accessible vaccination services to the community.
Bliss GVS Pharmaceuticals’ contribution is a timely reminder of the role that private sector partners can play in supporting public health, especially in the fight against preventable diseases like malaria.
