By Emily Kamisa and Blessings Kaunda

Mzuzu, June 18: Malawi Blood Transfusion Service (MBTS) on Saturday awarded certificates of recognition to long time blood donors during commemoration of World Blood Donor Day which was held under the theme; ‘Give blood, give plasma, share life, share often.’

Speaking in an interview, MBTS Quality Control Manager, Festus Nyangu appreciated people who have been donating blood consistently saying the country needs more blood now than ever.

“As MBTS, we are thankful for the cordial relationship that exists between us and various groupings in the country. Between the month of March and April 2023 only, we have managed to collect 22000 units of blood which gives us hope that we are going to meet the target,” Nyangu said.

Nyangu further said every year they need 120 000 units of blood which so far has been a challenge since 2019 due to, among other reasons, Covid 19 outbreak.

One of the awardees, Ephraim Kajani said he has been donating blood for 54 times since he started in 2004.

Traditional Authority (TA) Kampingo Sibande, who was guest of honour at the event, called on the general public to embrace a habit of donating blood noting that the country’s hospitals are perpetually running low on blood supplies.

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