ZNBTS TO RECRUIT 250 VOLUNTARY BLOOD DONORS

 By Daily News Reporter

Zambia National Blood Transfusion Services plans to recruit over 250 voluntary Blood donors by 2026.

Zambia to join the rest of world to celebrate World Blood Donor day which falls on 15^th August 2024 and this year’s theme for World Blood Donor Day 2024 is "20 years of celebrating giving thank you blood donors." This theme emphasizes the ongoing need for regular blood donations to ensure a stable and sufficient supply for patients in need. It encourages people to not only donate blood but to make it a regular practice, highlighting the critical role of consistent and voluntary blood donation in saving lives.

Speaking to the media in Lusaka World Blood Donor Day Chairperson organizing Committee Dr. Usha Padmanabhan, stated that they is need for regular blood donations to ensure a stable and sufficient supply for patients in need.

Dr. Usha added that behind every pint of donated blood lies an incredible story, one of lives touched by the generosity of strangers. But every blood donation is more than a random act of kindness. It’s a connection forged between individuals, creating a culture of generosity and gratitude.

Celebrating 20 years of blood donation is a remarkable milestone, honoring the generosity and commitment of blood donors over two decades. This celebration recognizes the countless lives saved and the impact of consistent contributions by dedicated donors.

A "Thank You" to all blood donors is more than just words—it's a heartfelt acknowledgment of their role in sustaining healthcare systems and supporting patients in need. Their selfless act of giving has provided hope and healing to those facing critical medical conditions.

Dr. Usha said that the goal is to help everyone who needs blood have access to it. This is a big goal, and it realize it’s unattainable without the generosity of donors. There are countless people in need of this life-saving resource.

“As we mark 20 years of this life-saving tradition, it's also a call to inspire others to join in this vital cause, ensuring that the legacy of giving continues for years to come.” Usha Added.

The Zambia National Blood Transfusion Services (ZNBTS) has been mandated with the tasks of collection and storing of safe blood/blood products.

The Zambian Government, through the Ministry of Health Zambia has continued strengthening all systems leading to achievement of blood collection and retention of voluntary blood donors by engaging in vital education and recruitment of blood donors in all provinces across the country.

And Zambia National Blood Transfusion Service Director Dr. Joseph Mulenga said this is to attain the target of collection of 400,000 units annually.

Dr. Mulenga said blood is critical in the delivery of healthcare services and that there is an increase in demand for blood due to increased specialized needs.

Dr. Mulenga added that this year ZNBTS aims to recruit 250,000 blood donors and expected to attain 400, 000 safe blood units.

Meanwhile Sharmaine Byrne a Blood donor stated that “It feels pretty amazing going through everything that I’ve gone through and then being able to be on the other side of that and give blood to people who need it.”

She added, “You never know whose life you could help save.”

And a Blood receiver shared a story with daily News (Name Changed for Confidential) Grace “I just remember them bringing bag after bag after bag,” Her transfusions continued after being moved to the ICU. As scary as the whole experience was, Grace looks back and knows that she wouldn’t have survived without those transfusions.

“It’s been such a humbling experience to realize that the blood other people gave me saved my life.”