The Blood Transfusion Service of Namibia (NamBTS) marketing officer Frieda Asino says although the service always needs blood donations, it currently has an adequate supply.
Speaking to Desert Radio on Tuesday, Asino encouraged donors and non-donors to donate.
“You must remember that only 1,2% of our population donate blood, and you can imagine how many people that is and that saves the entire country.
“It’s not that it’s not urgent. We are always in need of a constant blood supply so that whatever happens, we are ready to issue blood to the hospitals,” Asino said.
NamBTS consultants are currently reaching out to previous donors to donate blood at their nearest branch.
NamBTS is set to host an event called ‘Engine Bleed: The Ultimate Blood Drive’ at the Old Wheelers Club on Saturday.
According to Asino, the blood bank currently has a “healthy” supply.
She said supply of blood type A is in excess.
“We currently have a very healthy blood supply, although our A’s are very, very high. So we have been excluding them since last week and we’re continuing until next week.
“It’s unethical to continue bleeding our As when they are in excess,” she said.
Asino said donation drives allow people the convenience of donating at a venue close to them.
She said people struggle to find time to donate.
NamBTS is targeting 150 donations for this year’s drive.
The event will feature live music, vehicles and bikers, Asino said.
Every donor will receive free hotdog and non-alcoholic beer.
There are also free blood group tests.
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