The Uganda Insurance Association officially handed over two fully-equipped Type B ambulances to the Uganda Red Cross Society at a ceremony attended by leaders from the insurance industry, representatives of the Uganda Red Cross Society and development partners. The handover ceremony that took place on 2nd July, 2026, at UIA Gardens, follows a collection drive that saw UIA, its members & partners collect over UGX 300 million for the cause.
Speaking at the launch, UIA Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jonan Kisakye, said the initiative reflects the industry’s evolving role in national development and its commitment to preventing loss before it occurs. “Our responsibility does not begin after disaster strikes. It begins by supporting initiatives that reduce risk, strengthen resilience and safeguard lives before loss occurs.” Mr. Kisakye noted that while the insurance industry is widely recognized for providing financial protection against life’s uncertainties, it also has a responsibility to invest in initiatives that create safer and more resilient communities.
He described the ambulances as more than a corporate donation, calling them a collective commitment by Uganda’s insurance industry to support institutions whose work has a direct and lasting impact on the wellbeing of Ugandans.
Referencing the Uganda Police Force Annual Crime Report 2024, which recorded over 25,000 road traffic crashes resulting in more than 5,000 fatalities, Mr. Kisakye emphasized the importance of timely emergency medical response during the critical “Golden Hour” following serious injuries. He said strengthening emergency response services is an investment that will save lives and improve health outcomes across the country.
UIA Chairperson, Ms. Ruth Namuli described the initiative as a reflection of how the insurance industry works together with key stakeholders to improve lives. She noted that the donation demonstrates the industry’s commitment to public service and reinforces its responsibility as a custodian of public confidence.
She commended the UIA Board, member companies and partners for uniting around a common purpose and thanked the Uganda Red Cross Society for its unwavering dedication to serving humanity. Ms. Namuli expressed hope that the partnership would continue to grow, encouraging more collaborative initiatives that improve community wellbeing. “This should not be the last, it should be the beginning of even greater efforts to give back to our communities.”
Receiving the ambulances on behalf of the Uganda Red Cross Society, Director of Communications, Resource Mobilization and Partnerships, Ms. Irene Nakasiita, welcomed the contribution, describing it as a significant investment in Uganda’s healthcare system. She stated that the donation goes beyond providing emergency vehicles, noting that it represents a humanitarian contribution that will strengthen emergency response services and improve access to life-saving medical care.
Ms. Nakasiita commended the Uganda Insurers Association for supporting the Uganda Red Cross Society’s daily humanitarian work and affirmed the Society’s commitment to transparency and accountability by regularly updating UIA on the impact of the partnership. She also expressed optimism about expanding the collaboration into other humanitarian initiatives, including road safety awareness and blood donation campaigns.
The handover ceremony was also attended by Superintendent of Police, Justin Opus, who applauded the Uganda Insurers Association for supporting the Uganda Red Cross Society. He noted that the initiative gives hope to communities across Uganda, adding that the ambulances will benefit generations through improved emergency response and saving countless lives.
The ambulance donation reflects the insurance industry’s shared belief that protecting lives extends beyond financial compensation, and requires meaningful investments that prevent loss, strengthen resilience and create lasting social impact. As the ambulances begin serving communities across Uganda, they stand as a symbol of collaboration, compassion and the insurance industry’s enduring commitment to safeguarding lives.
