On June 19, 2025, the usually quiet ambience of Stonehaven in Kololo transformed into a vibrant celebration of art and compassion. Ssese Nation, in collaboration with the Uganda Blood Transfusion Services, launched the Pulse of Life blood donation campaign to mark World Sickle Cell Day. Powered by an inspired community and several passionate partners, the event turned a pressing health crisis into an opportunity for unity, awareness, and action.
Uganda’s need for blood is urgent. With a population of over 55 million, the country requires at least 450,000 units annually. However, current efforts only manage to collect around 340,000 units, leaving thousands of patients at risk due to complications from malaria, childbirth, and sickle cell disease.
Seeing this gap, Ssese Nation stepped in with a bold and inclusive platform rooted in art, youth engagement, and advocacy. “We’re not just about art,” said Edgar Kebba, co-founder of Ssese Nation. “We have a strong sense of community, inclusion, and the power to give back.”
The Pulse of Life campaign was a multi-sensory experience. Alongside the life-saving act of blood donation, attendees were invited to channel their inner creativity, writing messages of hope or painting on open canvases provided by Droop Canvas. This interactive station allowed donors to visually express their solidarity with those battling sickle cell disease.
Beyond blood collection, the event also offered a host of activities like free health screenings and workshops on sickle cell disease awareness.
Pulse of Life To Keep Growing
“This isn’t just about collecting blood,” said Lindsey Busingye, Partnerships Manager at Ssese Nation. “It’s about bringing people together, educating the public, and building something for the Ssese Nation that leaves a legacy.”
Following the event’s success, plans are underway to host the Pulse of Life campaign twice a year and to bring even more creatives and health champions into the movement.
A campaign of this scale and impact would not have been possible without the support of several committed partners. These included:
Uganda Blood Transfusion Services, Rare Mark Foundation, Maru Credit, DFCU Bank, Camelot Concepts, Kenson Images, All Events Kampala, Mountain Slayers Uganda, SPES Medical Centre, Simples Entertainment Limited, Droop Canvas, Bantu Vibes, Lutaya Dream Resource Foundation, Uganda Bikers, Digida Mobile Events, Events Limited, and Shonale. Together, they powered a celebration of life that blended health, creativity, and culture in equal measure.
As All Events Kampala, it was a privilege covering this public health campaign, and we call upon all our readers to visit Uganda Blood Transfusion Services centres all over the country and keep donating blood.
