By Namutebi Sumayiya
Kansai Plascon Uganda, a leading paint manufacturer in Uganda, has made a significant contribution to pediatric cancer care by generously donating paint to refurbish the children’s ward at the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI).
This donation reflects Plascon’s ongoing commitment to corporate social responsibility and community support.
The handover ceremony, held on May 24th, 2024, at the Uganda Cancer Institute, saw the presence of key stakeholders, including representatives from Kansai Plascon, the Uganda Cancer Institute, the Uganda Child Cancer Foundation (UCCF), and CG Engineering Consultants, responsible for the refurbishment.
Mr. Santosh Gumte, Managing Director of Kansai Plascon Uganda, expressed the company’s dedication to supporting health initiatives, stating, “We are honored to contribute to enhancing the environment where children undergo critical cancer treatment. At Kansai Plascon, we prioritize giving back to our communities, and we believe this refurbishment will positively impact the healing journey of these children.”
Dr. Jackson Orem, Head of the Uganda Cancer Institute and Board Chairman of the Uganda Child Cancer Foundation, emphasized the significance of the donation, stating, “This generous contribution from Kansai Plascon will greatly improve the ambiance of our children’s ward, creating a more welcoming and comforting space for our young patients and their families. Such support is crucial in our mission to deliver top-notch cancer care and foster a conducive environment for healing.”
The Uganda Cancer Institute, situated in Kampala, is a public medical facility in partnership with the Ministry of Health, specializing in cancer research, training, consultation, prevention, and treatment across various disciplines. Affiliated with Makerere University School of Medicine and Mulago Hospital Complex, UCI provides a robust platform for medical education and research.
Mr. Moses Echodu, Programs Manager at the Uganda Child Cancer Foundation, expressed gratitude, stating, “The support from Kansai Plascon underscores the power of partnerships in improving the lives of children battling cancer. The fresh environment created by the paint will facilitate psychosocial support through play therapy and other activities crucial for our patients’ well-being.”
Mr. Charles Gavamukulya, Team Lead of CG Engineering Consultants, shared insights into the refurbishment process, saying, “Our team is eager to transform the children’s ward into a space that instills hope and aids healing. This project goes beyond painting walls; it’s about creating an environment that fosters optimism and recovery for these young patients. We appreciate the trust placed in us by the institute and the foundation to deliver this important project.”
Established in 1965, the Uganda Cancer Institute has evolved from treating Burkitt’s lymphoma to becoming a comprehensive center for cancer treatment and research. Despite challenges like political instability and economic downturns, UCI remains a beacon of cancer care and research in the region.