To commemorate World Blood Donor Day, the World Health Organisation(WHO) in partnership with the Lesotho Blood Transfusion Service launched a campaign aimed at encouraging voluntary blood donation to save lives.

WHO recognizes the critical importance of adequate and safe blood supply to support healthcare systems.

In his remarks, WHO Country Representative, Dr. Richard Banda stated that there are still a good number of Basotho in need of essential health services, including safe and sufficient blood.

"Blood shortages persist, and this gap threatens the lives of countless individuals in critical need of transfusions due to accidents, surgeries, childbirth, and various medical conditions".

" Therefore, this year’s blood donation campaign slogan, “Give blood, give plasma, share life, share often” underlines the role every person can play by regularly giving the valuable gift of blood to create a safe and sustainable supply of blood and blood products that can always be available to needy patients", Banda explained.

He called on government, partners, and all stakeholders to mobilize support at district and national levels in strengthening and sustaining blood programs to promote regular, voluntary, unpaid blood donation.

The Director General of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Nyane Letsie decried the fact that Basotho only donates blood when it is needed, and only when they donate to family members, whereas blood is supposed to be readily available throughout the year.

Letsie while thanking WHO for their support, said blood has to be readily available in facilities, for those in need, so that in times of emergencies, patients do not have to wait for donations.

“Education on the importance of donating blood could help address the already existing challenge of blood donation in the country, to help know the best time to donate, and how to donate”, she concluded.

51-year-old, Tsabalira Ramoeletsi , a Police Officer said that he has been donating blood voluntarily for over 10 years. He said, “I donate blood because I want to help others who need it”.

Maphakiso Maqeba, a nurse from Samaria Health Centre said she has been donating blood for two years, and she does so to save other people’s lives.