The Ministry of Health will on Wednesday unveil the Murang'a County satellite blood bank as part of the efforts to ensure blood donation services become more accessible to the community.
This comes even Kenya joins the rest of the world in commemorating World Blood Donor Day (WBDD).
The event which will take place in Ihura Stadium in Murang’a County is dedicated to honoring voluntary blood donors and raising awareness about the importance of regular blood donations.
It will be presided over by the Health CS Susan Wafula and the day will be marked under the theme ‘Give blood, give plasma, share life, share often’.
“The event will feature various highlights, including recognition of exceptional blood donors who have selflessly donated to save lives,” the ministry said in a statement.
Partner organisations will also be appreciated during the event for their support in ensuring the availability and safety of blood and blood products in the country.
“Discussion on the achievements and progress made in reorganising blood collection services to meet the increasing demand for safe blood will also be done,” the ministry said.
The day will also be used to highlight the progress made by the government in digital transformation initiatives to enhance efficiency and resource management in the blood donation process.
The ministry has reiterated the government’s commitment to support county governments in strengthening primary healthcare services while also building capacity for specialised care including critical care, renal and cancer services.
Kenya has been struggling with a blood shortage.
The country requires between 500,000 to one million units of blood a year, yet collects less than a quarter of that volume.
The availability of safe blood and blood products is a prerequisite for various health care services.
These include surgeries, treatments for cancer and other acute and chronic medical conditions, trauma care, organ transplantation, and childbirth: all lifesaving procedures.
