SHARING and caring for each other has always been a big part of our life as Africans.
This practice has been in existence for ages.
It creates a sense of unity, pride and genuine love among Zimbabweans and other nationalities across the continent.
With the festive season now upon us, this culture is even more popular among us.
Gifts, booze and food are usually shared with strangers during the festive season.
The needy are also remembered by some of the well-established philanthropists.
However, there are some who give to the less privileged but still prefer remaining silent.
Bringing a cheer or smile on someone’s face is all they want.
And, being as generous as they come, these philanthropists know very well that God will return the favour for their good deeds.
With Zimbabweans known for sharing everything they have in life, we seem to be lagging behind when it comes to donating blood.
Yes, blood can be donated for the benefit of those who fall sick or get hurt in sad situations like road carnages.
Blood donors are now scarce and this has prompted the prices of blood to go up.
In yesterday’s issue, we carried a sad story of the National Blood Services Zimbabwe (NBSZ), which revealed that our blood bank is, indeed, in dire straits.
The sad news comes ahead of the festive season.
The NBSZ urged members of the public to donate blood and help the needy of our country.
Over the years, the festive season is often associated with a lot of accidents, in all parts of the country, hence the need to donate blood.
In recent years, there have been many accidents during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.
NBSZ communications officer, Kudakwashe Chidziya, confirmed that their blood stocks are critically low.
Chidziya’s revelation should never be taken lightly if we are to save lives this festive season.
As such, he called for every Zimbabwean to play their part and donate blood.
He said December was usually a bloody month as more accidents usually occur during this time of the year.
The spokesperson said they want to have enough blood for the next two months.
In total, NBSZ anticipates a total collection of 6 960 blood units to ensure adequate stocks are available in December, January and beyond.
In a related matter, the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe has urged drivers to exercise caution on the roads.
However, it is the need to donate blood which is critical at the moment.
As a nation, we should practise this culture of donating blood throughout the year.
We should not wait for the festive season, or other busy holidays, to start mobilising blood donors to come on board.
The NBSZ should intensify their campaigns and boost the blood bank.
Young children must grow up knowing the importance of donating blood.
Our blood bank can be boosted once we work as a team.




