The Katikiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga (C), Pearl Bank Managing Director Julius Kakeeto (L) and Joint Clinical Research Centre Executive Director Dr. Cissy Kityo (2nd L) meet with officials from Rotary Uganda and JCRC at Bulange on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. The group discussed a new partnership to raise $4 million for Uganda’s first bone marrow transplant center, aimed at treating sickle cell disease and other blood disorders locally.
The Katikiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga (C), Pearl Bank Managing Director Julius Kakeeto (L) and Joint Clinical Research Centre Executive Director Dr. Cissy Kityo (2nd L) meet with officials from Rotary Uganda and JCRC at Bulange on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. The group discussed a new partnership to raise $4 million for Uganda’s first bone marrow transplant center, aimed at treating sickle cell disease and other blood disorders locally.

Overview:

Pearl Bank commits 200 million shillings to a landmark partnership with JCRC and Rotary to establish a regional hub for bone marrow transplants in Uganda.

MENGO, Uganda — Pearl Bank has committed 200 million shillings toward the establishment of Uganda’s first bone marrow transplant facility, a move aimed at providing local treatment for sickle cell disease and other blood disorders.

The announcement came during a meeting Wednesday where the Katikiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, praised the bank, the Joint Clinical Research Centre and Rotary Uganda for spearheading a $4 million fundraising drive to complete the project.

The facility, located in Lubowa, is expected to make Uganda one of only two countries in East Africa to offer bone marrow transplants. Currently, thousands of Ugandans suffering from leukemia, lymphoma and sickle cell disease must travel abroad for specialized care.

Julius Kakeeto, managing director of Pearl Bank, said the partnership is a strategic investment in the country’s medical research and specialized healthcare infrastructure. He noted that localizing these services will reduce the financial burden on patients and the national health system.

The bank, which recently rebranded from PostBank Uganda, is also hosting an online donation portal on the JCRC website. The portal allows well-wishers to contribute via mobile money, credit cards and bank deposits.

Dr. Cissy Kityo, executive director of the JCRC, said that while the foundation for the center has been laid, the remaining $4 million is critical to install state-of-the-art technology and begin operations.

The initiative has gained significant backing from the Buganda Kingdom and Rotary International. Leaders including Rotary District Governors Geoffrey Martin Kitakule and Christine Kyeyune Kawooya are helping lead the campaign to reach the funding goal.

The JCRC was established in 1991 and previously pioneered antiretroviral therapy in Uganda. Officials said the new unit will position the country as a regional hub for advanced curative medicine and gene therapy.