Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter
ZIMBABWE is set to intensify efforts to promote voluntary blood donation and advocate for stronger Government support as the country marks World Blood Donor Day on June 14.
The national commemorations, organised by the National Blood Services Zimbabwe (NBSZ), will take place in Kadoma and run under the theme “Give blood, give hope: Together we save lives.”
World Blood Donor Day, which is observed on June 14 every year, honours the life-saving contributions of voluntary, unpaid blood donors and aims to raise public awareness about the critical need for regular donations.
In a statement, NBSZ communications officer Ms Vickie Maponga said the Kadoma event will bring together a broad range of stakeholders, including blood donors, healthcare professionals and Government representatives.
“The occasion also aims to raise awareness about the ongoing need for regular blood donations to ensure the quality, safety and availability of blood and blood products for patients in need,” she said.
“In addition, the day serves as a call to action for governments and national health authorities to provide adequate resources to increase the collection of blood from voluntary, unpaid donors and to ensure access to safe blood and transfusion services for all who require them.”
In Zimbabwe, the demand for blood remains high, particularly in cases involving childbirth complications, surgeries, trauma, cancer care and other medical emergencies.
Ensuring a consistent supply of safe blood is vital to saving lives and improving health outcomes.
As part of the commemorations, long-time donors will be recognised with awards, and a range of interactive activities will be held to encourage broader public participation and cultivate a lasting culture of donation.
Online Reporter