THE South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has unveiled its new “Be The Lifeline – Give Blood. Give A Tomorrow.” campaign as part of World Blood Donor Day commemorations on June 14, marking the organisation’s 25th anniversary and recognising the vital role blood donors play in sustaining South Africa’s healthcare system.

The campaign celebrates the countless donors whose contributions have helped save and improve lives across the country, from mothers and newborns to trauma patients, cancer sufferers and children battling life-threatening illnesses.

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SANBS CEO Ravi Reddy said World Blood Donor Day serves as a reminder of the profound impact of every blood donation.

“For 25 years, South Africans have consistently shown extraordinary generosity through blood donation. Every donor who walks through our doors becomes part of someone else’s tomorrow,” said Reddy.

The campaign will highlight real-life stories of donors, recipients and healthcare workers to showcase the human impact behind every unit of blood collected, while encouraging more South Africans, particularly younger generations, to become regular donors.

Reddy added that SANBS’ 25-year milestone is a tribute to the millions of South Africans who have helped maintain a reliable national blood supply.

“We are deeply grateful to every donor who continues to choose compassion, kindness, and community through blood donation. Their contributions have helped SANBS remain a trusted lifeline for South Africans for the past 25 years,” he said.

SANBS reputation and communications manager Sifiso Khoza said blood donation remains one of the most meaningful ways to help others.

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“World Blood Donor Day reminds us that behind every successful transfusion is a donor who chose to help someone they may never meet. Blood donation is one of the most powerful acts of humanity because a single donation can save multiple lives,” said Khoza.

As part of the campaign, SANBS is calling on all eligible South Africans to donate blood and help secure a safe and sufficient blood supply for patients in need.

“Blood cannot be manufactured. It can only come from people willing to give a part of themselves to save another life. This World Blood Donor Day, we encourage South Africans to continue being the lifeline that so many patients depend on every day,” added Khoza.

Donors who are ready and willing to roll up their sleeves and lend an arm can find their nearest donor centre at  www.sanbs.org.za. Alternatively, contact 0800 11 90 31.

To become a blood donor, you must:

· Be between the ages of 16 and 75 years
· Weigh 50kg or more
· Be in good health
· Lead a healthy lifestyle
· Consider your blood safe for transfusion to a patient

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