By Our Reporter
Vivo Energy Uganda’s ‘Fuelling Hope’ blood donation initiative, implemented in partnership with Uganda Blood Transfusion Services (UBTS), has won the prestigious Best Partnership Award for 2024 at the annual Vivo Energy Group Awards held in Cape Town, South Africa.
The Best Partnership Award celebrates initiatives that create meaningful relationships with partners and local communities, investing in their development while enabling the company to better understand their needs. The recognition highlights Vivo Energy Uganda’s dedication to creating sustainable partnerships that positively impact lives.
The ‘Fuelling Hope’ initiative was launched to address the critical shortage of blood in Uganda, mobilizing Vivo Energy Uganda’s network of Shell service stations as community hubs for blood donation. Over the past year, the initiative successfully collected more than 1,000 units of blood from customers and communities across the country. These donations have made a significant contribution to saving lives in Uganda’s healthcare system.
Rob Foyle, Head of Communications at Vivo Energy Group, commended the achievement, saying: “The “Fuelling Hope” initiative exemplifies what the Partnerships Award stands for – building lasting relationships with our partners and addressing real community needs. Vivo Energy Uganda has set a remarkable example of how innovation and commitment can create tangible benefits for society.”
Valery Okecho, Corporate Communications Manager at Vivo Energy Uganda, added: “The success of the blood donation drives reflects the incredible support of our customers, partners, and employees. By working together, we’ve turned our Shell service stations into spaces where hope is restored, and lives are saved. We are grateful for the trust placed in us to drive such impactful initiatives.”
Joanita Mukasa Menya, Managing Director of Vivo Energy Uganda, expressed her pride in the award, stating: “Winning the Best Partnership Award is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared purpose. We’ve not only strengthened our partnership with UBTS but also demonstrated the profound impact businesses can have in addressing societal challenges. This recognition inspires us to continue supporting the communities we serve.”
The initiative’s impact has been deeply felt by UBTS. Dr. Dorothy Kyeyune Byabazaire, Executive Director of UBTS, shared her gratitude: “Vivo Energy Uganda has been an invaluable partner in addressing Uganda’s blood donation challenges. The ‘Fuelling Hope’ initiative has made a tremendous difference in replenishing our blood banks and saving countless lives. We thank Vivo Energy Uganda for their unwavering commitment to this cause.”
Vivo Energy Uganda extends its appreciation to everyone who participated in the ‘Fuelling Hope’ activations, especially the donors that demonstrate the true spirit of community. The company remains committed to partnering with stakeholders with shared values in championing impactful social initiatives to drive societal change and support the wellbeing of communities in Uganda.