Butha Buthe- The Ministry of Health hosted a colourful national event in Butha Buthe District to commemorate World Blood Day, honouring voluntary blood donors, under the inspiring theme, "Give Blood, Give Hope - Together we save lives". 

The event, which highlighted the importance of voluntary blood donation, was graced by the Honourable Minister of Health, Mr. Selibe Mochoboroane, alongside Dr. Innocent Nuwagira, the World Health Organization (WHO) Representative in Lesotho, the Principal Secretary and the Director General of the Ministry of Health, and the area Member of Parliament for Butha-Buthe Number Five, Hon. Karabo Pholosa among other dignitaries.

In his address, Honourable Minister of Health, Selibe Mochoboroane stressed the vital role of blood donation. Hon Selibe Mochoboroane He donated blood during the event as a practical demonstration of leading by example. The Minister lauded the voluntary blood donors for their selflessness and steadfast dedication to offering a lifeline to those in critical need. “ I urge every Mosotho aged 16 to 65 to see blood donation as both a personal and national duty,” said Honourable Mochoboroane.

Dr. Innocent Nuwagira, WHO Representative, commended the Ministry of Health for its continued efforts to strengthen the National Blood Transfusion Services. Having donated blood himself earlier in the week as part of the UN Family, Dr Nuwagira encouraged individuals to give blood, stating that, “Every drop of blood donated carries hope and the power to save lives. It is more than a gesture; it is our shared duty.” 

Speaking at the same function, the Lesotho National Blood Transfusion Services/Blood Bank Manager, Mme Mahloli Ratsiu, stated that the new centre that was opened in Butha Buthe district will serve as a hub for the collection of blood. “By maintaining this centre we will be able to increase blood supply by meeting the people halfway to donate blood.” 

A significant component of this year's commemoration was the active participation of the United Nations in Lesotho, which earlier in the week organized a successful blood donor drive at the UN House. This initiative, part of a series of drives conducted by the Lesotho Blood Transfusion Services, saw staff from various UN agencies come together to donate. A total of 24 pints of blood were collected during the UN drive, demonstrating a strong commitment to community health and solidarity. Among the donors were the Acting Resident Coordinator, Mr. Innocent Modisaotsile, and Dr. Innocent Nuwagira- WHO Representative who personally donated blood, leading by example and inspiring others.

Here are some of the staff members' thoughts on their motivation to donate blood during the UN Blood Drive:

“As the UN family in Lesotho, we came together to donate blood, not as a gesture, but as a promise. A promise to stand with communities, to support the health system, and to help save lives in Lesotho. Every unit of blood given during the UN Blood Drive is a silent act of courage and care. We are proud to be part of this national effort because health and humanity are at the heart of the UN’s mission in Lesotho. Give blood, Give hope; Together we save lives"- Mr. Innocent Modisaotsile 

"I know someone needs blood out there – so anything I can do to make a difference and save lives." - Ntsilane Thetha

"Blood donation is one of the easiest lifesaving noble acts – the impact is direct and meaningful." - Therese

The Lesotho Blood Transfusion Services continues its vital work in ensuring a stable and safe blood supply for all hospitals across the country. These ongoing donation drives are crucial in meeting the constant demand for blood and blood products, which are essential for emergencies, surgeries, and the treatment of various medical conditions.

The Ministry of Health extends its sincere appreciation to all partners, including the World Health Organization, the United Nations in Lesotho, community leaders, and particularly the selfless blood donors, for their unwavering support in making this year's World Blood Donor Day commemoration a resounding success.