Story by Fungai Jachi
THE National Blood Service Zimbabwe (NBSZ) is on a drive targeting to collect over 2 000 units of blood in 16 days, with the organisation confident bringing the service to the people will boost public participation in the blood donation drive.
People from all walks of life this Friday took time to donate blood through an initiative by the NBSZ which brought the service to the people.
The initiative, which mostly targets motorists as donation stalls are put up at a service station, was greatly welcomed by not only regular donors but first-timers as well.
“I am a regular blood donor and I was glad to do once again something I love doing,” a blood donor said
“It is my first time to donate blood because I couldn’t do so before because I was underweight,” first-time blood donor said.
“I always want to help people in any way possible and donating blood is one way of doing it,” a donor said.
“I am always inspired to give blood because I have seen how critical it is when one needs it,” a citizen said.
The Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation’s Classic 263 radio presenters were also part of the many who participated in the selfless act.
“This is my 12th time donating blood and I always make sure every chance I get I do my part to donate blood because I know it will help someone,” ZBC Classic 263 presenter, Ian Vambe said.
“This is my first time because I have always been underweight but today I have managed to do something that I have always wanted to do,” Classic 263 presenter, Nicole Jamu said.
“I have always been scared but I was here working and was convinced that there is nothing to be afraid of,” Victor Mpofu, Classic 263 presenter, Doc Vickela said.
NBSZ says the initiative which was introduced in 2023 has boosted the blood collection programme.
“Before schools open we want to make sure we have collected more blood. We are sitting on five days’ supply of blood stocks in our blood banks but we always want to make sure we have more blood in case of emergencies.
“We have always managed to surpass our targets the previous years and so this time from today up to May 24 we are targeting to collect 2 430 Units of blood,” NBSZ- team leader for Blood donor Coordinator, Mr Tichaona Saira said.
NBSZ is mandated to supply public health institutions with blood products which are then provided for free to patients in need.
