Calls for blood donations on ‘Red Saturday’

The Blood Transfusion Service of Namibia (NamBTS) is inviting the communities of Windhoek, Oshakati, and Walvis Bay to participate in a special event on Saturday, called Red Saturday.

Michael Sheyavali, a senior marketing officer at the NamBTS, says the event will ensure sufficient blood reserves “as we are expecting critical blood shortages with the upcoming public holidays on 26, 28 and 29 May”.

First-time donors are also encouraged to donate as it is the right thing to do, he says.

“The aim is to guarantee our commitment to saving lives,” Sheyavali says.

“Members of the public are more than welcome to come with a friend, a colleague or their spouse for moral support.”

The event is part of NamBTS’ continued campaign, #DareToCare, which highlights the vital role individuals play in saving lives through blood donation.

Participants can expect gifts and refreshments as a token of appreciation for their life-saving contributions.

Zita Tobin, the marketing and donor relations manager at NamBTS, says: “Our first Red Saturday was successfully held on 12 April before Easter, where we recorded over 194 donations, including 29 first-time donors.

“We are optimistic that with our dedicated donors at these towns, we can exceed our previous achievements.

‘We encourage all Namibians to show their love and compassion during this critical time and help us reach our target of 250 donations this Saturday.”

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