BLOOD DONORS APPRECIATED
threatening conditions live longer; with a higher quality of life and supports complex medical and surgical procedures.
“Blood is also vital for treating the wounded during emergencies of all kinds, natural disasters, accidents, armed conflicts; and has an essential, life-saving role in maternal and neonatal care,” he said.
Dr Dikoloti also urged the public to make access to safe blood a reality for everyone. “Adequate blood supply during emergencies requires a well-organized blood service. This can only be insured by engaging the entire community and a blood donor population committed to voluntary unpaid blood donation throughout the year.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) had a global goal of 100 percent voluntary unpaid blood donors by 2020. According to the Minister, Botswana has attained 100 percent donation from voluntary and unpaid blood donors.
The Minister further assured donors and potential donors that it is still safe to donate blood and be transfused with blood during the era of Covid-19, as long as compliance to preventive measures is maintained.
“I would like to salute all the selfless blood donors who contribute to keeping the world pulsating by saving lives and improving others’ health,” Dr Dikoloti said, adding that all those who are eligible to donate blood and have not started, to do so.
In 2020, a total of 23,274 units of blood were collected, which was a decline from the previous collection of 24,690 in 2019.
According to the Minister, the drastic decline in blood collection during the year 2020 was due to the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic.