Calling all first time blood donors

As South Africans gear up for a festive season filled with excitement, fun, and family gatherings, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is launching its annual summer campaign.

Recognising the increased demand for blood products during this bustling time, the SANBS is unwavering in its commitment to a safe and sufficient blood supply across the nation’s healthcare system.

The SANBS summer campaign that kicked off at the beginning of November has a mission to exceed South Africa’s current blood donor base of 1%.

By cultivating awareness, boosting blood collections, retaining regular donors, and engaging the youth, the SANBS aims to safeguard the blood reserves crucial for emergencies and routine procedures.

The campaign will focus on raising awareness about the importance of regular blood donations, encouraging first-time donors to make donating a lifelong practice and educating the public on the reciprocal benefits of giving blood.

First-time donors are the lifeblood of the SANBS summer campaign, representing a vital component in expanding South Africa’s blood donor pool beyond the existing 1%.

Although they are not the only focus, they are crucial to the campaign’s success, as attracting new donors lays the foundation for a sustainable and reliable blood supply.

“We want to tap into the enthusiasm and potential of first-time donors whilst cultivating a culture where donating becomes a lifelong habit.

“This focus on new donors is not about a one-time contribution; it’s about ingraining the value of regular donation as a routine part of life,” said Thandi Mosupye, senior manager of marketing, communication, and brand at SANBS.

Through targeted outreach and educational efforts, the campaign seeks to ease any apprehensions and emphasise the impact of each donation, encouraging individuals to continue supporting their communities for years to come.

Emphasising community engagement, SANBS aims to inspire young South Africans aged 16-24, by drawing attention to the rewarding societal contribution a blood donation provides. These efforts will go beyond the summer campaign by continuing into the year at nationwide schools and tertiary institutions.

“Furthermore, the campaign encourages the youth to find purpose in making a difference,” added Mosupye,
“We invite young South Africans to become heroes by donating blood. Through this act, we foster a culture of giving that transforms lives and strengthens our healthcare system.”

Although the campaign focuses on youth, the SANBS invites all South Africans to be regular blood donors while leveraging media outlets to amplify its reach.

Visit www.sanbs.org.za or contact 0800 119 031 to find out where you can donate blood.

Follow SANBS on X (@theSANBS), Facebook (@SANBS) Instagram (@thesanbs) and TikTok (@thesanbs).

Through the collective force of the summer campaign, SANBS aims to bolster blood donations and nurture ongoing community involvement, ensuring that South Africa’s healthcare system remains resilient and prepared to meet any challenge.