Zimbabwe's blood bank gets a boost

Rutendo Mazhindu

Zim Now Reporter

The National Blood Service Zimbabwe (NBSZ) has announced a successful blood collection drive, amassing 8,700 units of blood between January and February 10, 2025. This nationwide campaign, conducted in partnership with Redan Petroleum, aimed to replenish the national blood bank and ensure an adequate supply for medical needs.

The initiative, which took place in major cities across Zimbabwe, including Harare, Bulawayo, Gweru, Mutare, and Masvingo, offered a 5-litre fuel coupon as an incentive for non-remunerated blood donors. This partnership with Redan Petroleum proved fruitful, drawing in a significant number of donors.

NBSZ Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Lucy Marowa, expressed satisfaction with the results of the campaign. “The target for this year is 97,500 units,” she stated. “So far, we have managed to collect 8,700 units between January and February 10, 2025.” This positive start puts the NBSZ on track to surpass last year’s total collection of 77,020 units.

The campaign saw varied levels of participation across different cities. Masvingo led the pack with an impressive 513 units collected, followed closely by Mutare with 508 units. Harare contributed a respectable 368 units. The geographical spread of the campaign ensured that blood donations were collected from a diverse pool of donors, increasing the chances of matching rare blood types.

Ms. Marowa highlighted the critical importance of blood type O, often referred to as the “universal donor.” “Blood type O is the most common blood group, accounting for 48-50% of the population,” she explained. “Due to its universal donor status, it is in high demand, particularly in hospitals where crossmatching tests may be limited.

This often leads to an increased need for blood group O beyond its normal population range.” The NBSZ is particularly focused on encouraging individuals with blood type O to donate, as it plays a vital role in emergency situations and for patients with rare blood types.

Each unit of blood collected is approximately 450 millilitres (ml).