By Our Reporter
MultiChoice Uganda, through its local content flagship channel, Pearl Magic has donated Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) worth Ugx 281.3 million (US$75,000) to Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and the National COVID-19 Task Force intended for people in high-risk areas and those at the frontline in support towards the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.
Speaking during the handover, Colin Asiimwe, Head of Marketing appreciated the government, the medical fraternity, private sector and the general public for their collective efforts towards the fight against COVID-19 in these unprecedented times. He further stressed that, MultiChoice Uganda had made previous interventions to support the cause and has another contribution to deliver.
He explained that, “the support we bring through this donation comes in the form of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) that includes a total of 7,500 KN95 Face Masks and 7,500 Disposable Isolation Gowns – valued at USD 75,000 (Ushs. 281.3 million).”
“Our core focus in this donation is the delivery of these PPEs to people in areas of high risk of the virus contagion in this case being Kampala which has so far recorded the highest number of deaths and infections,” Asiimwe remarked, adding that, “We shall also focus on medical workers at the frontline. Their need for this equipment is evidenced by available May, 2020 World Health Organization (WHO) statistics that illustrate that more than 90,000 health workers globally have been infected with the virus despite being preventable.”
He further highlighted that MultiChoice Uganda also gave a cash contribution of Ugx 10 million towards the Relief Fund, to assist with efforts in the fight against Covid-19.
Ms. Dorothy Kisaka, the Executive Director, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), applauded MultiChoice Uganda for the highly targeted and very timely contribution, noting that “we are pleased to receive the PPE’s from MultiChoice Uganda, a brand that has operated in the country for a long time and has Ugandans at heart, evidenced by initiatives like this and others like the dedication of a channel, Pearl Magic to air solely Ugandan-only content.”
“The contribution they have made today towards the safety and well- being of all Ugandans in times like these, is a symbol that we are together in this fight. I want to thank them for the generous contribution and showing solidarity towards fighting this disease and keeping Ugandans safe,” she added.
Dr. Zalwango Sarah, Ag Medical Services at KCCA commented that, “The rise in number of confirmed cases and deaths in the country requires more strategic and long-term support from partners. This ultimately includes support even to the health workers, some of who have contracted the disease in the course of their life-saving work.”
“Following the ease of the lockdown, Kampala city has become a high-risk area recording the highest number of deaths, therefore, it is important for everyone to wear a mask at all times and efforts to make that possible are welcome,” Dr. Zalwango stated.
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues around the globe with more than 40.1 million infections and over 1.11 million reported deaths, Uganda has noticeably put up a good fight with more than 7,066 recoveries out of over 10,788 cases. Despite some deaths registered the recognition of Uganda among the top 10 countries in terms of suppressing the coronavirus spread is a green light in the struggle.
