For 25 years, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has quietly been connecting strangers through a powerful act of humanity, blood donation.

Since its establishment in 2001, following the amalgamation of six previously independent regional blood services, SANBS has grown into a vital pillar of South Africa’s healthcare system, serving eight of the country’s nine provinces.

Over the past quarter-century, the organisation has evolved into a globally respected institution driven by scientific excellence, research, innovation and an uncompromising commitment to safety and quality.

SANBS has become the cornerstone of public health, ensuring a safe, reliable and sustainable blood supply for millions of South Africans.

Beyond the systems, science and scale, lies something far more meaningful: the people who actively choose to roll up their sleeves: people.

“This milestone belongs to the millions of South Africans who have rolled up their sleeves to give a part of themselves to save another’s life,” said SANBS CEO, Ravi Reddy.

“It belongs to the healthcare workers who rely on every unit of blood, the professionals who ensure its safety and the families whose lives have been forever changed by a donor they may never see.
“Every unit of blood carries hope and every donor holds someone’s second chance to live.”

On April 17, SANBS will mark its milestone anniversary.
Although a commemorative event will be held with key stakeholders, including the Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, eligible donors are urged to visit their nearest donor centre to make a donation.

“SANBS is sustained by the generosity of ordinary South Africans doing something extraordinary,” said Reddy.
“Behind every unit of blood is a human story of kindness, hope, and lives saved.

“This milestone is not only ours; it belongs to every donor and recipient. Looking to the future, we remain committed to ensuring that no patient is left without the blood they need to survive.”

Become a blood donor
Eligible donors must weigh more than 50kg and be between 16 and 75 years old.
The Northmead donor centre is located at 2 Fourteenth Avenue, Northmead, and is open from 10:00 to 18:00 daily and 08:30 to 14:00 on Saturdays.

For more information, contact 011 897 4951.
The Boksburg donor centre is located at the East Rand Mall, Bentel Avenue, Jansen Park, and is open from 10:00 to 18:00 daily and 08:30 to 14:00 on Saturdays.

For more information, contact 011 897 4985.

Also Read: #28MARCH: Be part of a SANBS Easter drive to collect 6 000 units of blood