22 Jun 2025

Botswana National Blood Transfusion Services is intensifying its efforts to boost blood donations across the country, especially following the observance of World Blood Donor Day on June 14.

The latest outreach initiative occurred in Kanye, where the community was engaged in blood donation campaigns.

In an interview on Friday, blood donor recruiter, Ms Botho Gaobotse highlighted their ongoing efforts to meet a national target set by the Ministry of Health to collect 45 000 pints this year, aimed at saving the lives of those in critical need.

She reported that over the years 2023 and 2024, they collected 28 000 and 27 000 pints respectively, reflecting a shortfall of 1 000 pints when compared year-on-year. “However, from January to June this year, we have only managed to collect 13 000 pints,” she said, raising  concern about not meeting their annual target as the year approached its halfway mark.

To address the declining trend, Ms Gaobotse announced plans to extend blood donation campaigns to various communities across the country. From June 23 to June 27, the team will be in Jwaneng, with plans to ensure that mobilisation efforts were not limited to Gaborone and its surrounding areas, but were also present in the northern region.

The Francistown office, located next to the fire department, serves areas including Orapa and Letlhakane, while the Maun extension adjacent to the old hospital caters to many nearby locations.

Notable hospitals also targeted for donations include Sekgoma Memorial Hospital in Serowe, Mahalapye Hospital, and Scottish Livingston Hospital.

Regarding eligibility criteria, Ms Gaobotse reiterated that donors must be aged between 16 to 65, in good health, and should have eaten a full meal a day prior to donation. She also noted that those unable to donate due to health-related issues should not lose hope, as they could assist in mobilising and recruiting more donors to support the cause.

All potential donors undergo thorough screening to ensure fitness for donation, minimising any health risks involved. She urged the public to come forward as the national blood supply was currently insufficient compared to the escalating demand, which was especially influenced by the frequency of road accidents and other emergencies.

Mr Katlego Chere, a veteran donor, shared his commitment to donating blood, born out of a desire to assist patients in urgent need of this vital components.

He encouraged youths to consider blood donation to help save lives. ENDS