Global cryptocurrency exchange Binance has pledged $125,000 (approximately Shs460 million) in humanitarian support to bolster Uganda’s ongoing Ebola response, with the funds being channelled through the Uganda Red Cross Society to strengthen containment efforts and protect vulnerable communities.
The contribution will support a range of frontline interventions in districts affected by the outbreak and those considered high-risk. These include community awareness campaigns, risk communication and public education, contact tracing, disease surveillance, and the provision of essential supplies and protective equipment for emergency responders.
Uganda continues to intensify efforts to contain the Ebola outbreak, drawing on lessons from previous epidemics that have tested the country’s public health systems. Government agencies, working alongside humanitarian organizations and development partners, have enhanced surveillance mechanisms, strengthened rapid response teams, and expanded public health education initiatives aimed at preventing further transmission.
Health experts emphasize that community engagement remains one of the most effective tools in controlling the spread of the virus, particularly in areas where access to healthcare services and reliable information is limited. The Uganda Red Cross Society has played a key role in supporting emergency response activities through community outreach, mobilization, and public sensitization campaigns.
Richard Teng, Chief Executive Officer of Binance, said the donation underscores the company’s commitment to supporting communities facing public health emergencies.
“Communities across Africa continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience in the face of complex challenges. However, frontline responders should not have to confront crises like this alone. The Uganda Red Cross Society is doing critical work to raise awareness, support affected communities, and strengthen outbreak response efforts. We are proud to contribute to these lifesaving initiatives and help protect those most at risk,” Teng said.
Uganda Red Cross Society Secretary General Robert Kwesiga welcomed the support, describing it as a timely contribution that will reinforce efforts to reach vulnerable populations and strengthen emergency response operations.
“Strong partnerships are essential during public health emergencies. This support will enable us to respond more effectively, expand our reach to at-risk communities, and enhance the frontline services required to contain the outbreak and save lives,” Kwesiga said.
The funding is expected to boost both immediate response measures and long-term prevention efforts through sustained public health education and community preparedness programmes.
As Uganda continues to battle the outbreak, authorities maintain that close collaboration between government institutions, humanitarian agencies, private sector partners, and local communities will be crucial in preventing further infections and safeguarding public health.
