KAMPALA, Uganda– Absa Bank Uganda has today handed over of UGX 50 million to Amref Health Africa in Uganda to improve access to education, health, and opportunity for vulnerable girls across Uganda.
The funds are part of Ushs 400M raised during the third edition of the Absa KH3_7 Hills Run, an annual charity run held in partnership with the Kampala Hash House Harriers,
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Michael Segwaya, Executive Director and Chief Finance Officer at Absa Bank Uganda, noted, “The Absa KH3_7 Hills Run is more than a race. It is a platform to change lives.
He said that this initiative is aligned with the bank’s purpose of being an active force for good and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 4 on quality education and SDG 5 on gender equality.
“Today, we are honored to celebrate the continuation of our impactful partnership with Absa Bank Uganda, who—once again—have demonstrated their commitment to empowering young girls through menstrual hygiene support,” said Dr. Patrick Kagurusi, Country Manager for Amref Health Africa in Uganda while recieving the donation from Absa Bank and KH3 officials in Kampala.
He noted that in 2024, Absa bank generously donated UGX 30 million, which enabled Amref Health Uganda to procure reusable sanitary pads for approximately 2,000 girls. “These pads were distributed to students in 20 schools across Mbale and Mayuge districts. This intervention played a critical role in keeping girls in school by addressing one of the major barriers to their education”
This year, Absa has increased their support, contributing UGX 50 million to the cause. ‘With this funding, we are now able to expand our efforts to reach even more vulnerable girls, including those in districts like Kalangala,’ Dr. Kagurusi explained.
He emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader program called Heroes for Gender Transformation, which is proudly supported by the Netherlands Embassy and the Embassy of Iceland in Uganda. “It is a strong example of what we can achieve through collaboration between development partners, the private sector, and grassroots implementers,” he stated.
‘Dr. Kagurusi added. ‘Amref is working hand-in-hand with local districts and schools to ensure that girls stay in school and thrive, not just academically, but in every aspect of their well-being.'”
