Haemorrhage before, during or after labour is one of the leading causes of maternal deaths in Uganda.

This was revealed by the Irish Ambassador to Uganda His Excellency Kevin Colgan while unveiling Karamoja first blood collection and distribution centre at the Moroto regional referral hospital on Wednesday.

According to the Ambassador, the unveiling of the blood collection, storage and distribution centre at the Moroto regional referral hospital marks a significant milestone.

The commissioning also coincided with the world blood donor day that is celebrated every June 14 annually.

Referring to the reduction in preventable maternal deaths, Colgan noted that Ireland was proud to have supported the establishment of the blood centre.

He asked the relevant persons to ensure mothers and children have access to blood saying it has been a huge challenge in the sub region.

The Director Clinical services at the ministry of health Dr. Charles Olaro has urged districts to embrace partnership saying government has come up with a policy to have all referral hospitals have blood banks.

Olaro adds that anemia still remains high in malaria cases, urging the leaders to mobilize communities to donate blood.

He however, cautioned medics not to sell blood, saying the life saver is free of charge adding that what is required is the efficient use.

The country representative Doctors with Africa-CUAMM Dr. Peter Lochoro says a lot has been done in the 18 months within Karamoja, adding that in Karenga an 800 million district drug store is under construction among others.

Lochoro further says Shs. 1.4 billion was spent on the equipment for the Moroto blood storage centre adding that Matany –missionary hospital the new born care unit will cost Shs 400 million. Also two brand new ambulances have been bought for Abim and Nabilatuk districts and the cars will be handed over soon to help transport patients.

The blood collection, storage and distribution centre was established under a two year project dubbed, “Strengthening district health systems for improved access to and utilization of quality services in Karamoja.