22 Jul 2020

 Botswana Defence Force (BDF) recently donated blood in an effort to help the National Blood Transfusion Services (NBTS) reach its target of 40 000 units of blood in a year. 

BDF’s 12 Squadron Commander (Francistown) Lt Col Mochele Thathau said management found it prudent to assist by donating blood as there was a nationwide shortage of blood. 

He noted that members of the force were also members of society, therefore they too might need blood in the future, hence the donation. 

Lt Col Thathau said all BDF members were expected to donate, regardless of rank. 

Principal registered nurse at NBTS, Mr Gibson Lulwamani said, in an interview, that their services included going around the country collecting blood, educating the public about the importance of blood donation, testing the blood and distributing it nationwide. He expressed gratitude to BDF for responding positively to their plea, revealling that they expected to collect 15 000 units. 

He said the COVID-19 outbreak was a challenge as one of their main sponsors being students; were not able to donate the usual 65 per cent or more of the total blood donated around the country. 

 “We are very grateful that the leadership of BDF is also taking part in blood donation and helping us reach our goal. BDF is one of our regular donors,” he said. Meanwhile, one of the donors, Private Gasejabone Chaute stated that he had donated blood 27 times and he was still eager to donate. He said he decided to become a regular donor after realising that there was shortage of blood in the country. 

He encouraged Batswana to be devoted in blood donation in order to save lives. ends