As a way of leading by example, WHO Country Office staff donated blood to the Uganda Blood Transfusion Service in commemoration of World Blood Donor day 2013.

They were led by the WHO Country Representative Dr Wondimagegnehu Alemu in an exercise that was conducted at the office. Overall, about 30 staff volunteered and donated blood which is more than 75% turn up. Recruitment of donors is an on-going activity required to maintain regular blood stocks in all health facilities.

Addressing the staff Dr Alemu requested them to sign to be regular blood donors noting that “donating blood was donating life” which is a noble cause. He added that donating blood at the WHO Country Office set an example not only to other UN agencies and partners but to the country at large.

The theme for this year’s Blood Donor Day is: “Give the gift of life, Donate Blood” and is a rallying call to individuals in all countries to voluntarily donate blood.

According to WHO, by 2020, all countries should be able to obtain 100% of their supplies of blood and blood products from voluntary unpaid blood donors.

WHO recognises the fact that an increase in the number of people who give blood voluntarily and regularly is the only way of ensuring that safe blood is accessible to every patient who needs it.

However, it is not uncommon to find many hospitals in many countries in short supply.

Lack of timely access to blood is a major cause of death in women suffering from haemorrhage due to pregnancy-related complications, children suffering from severe anaemia due to malaria and malnutrition, victims of trauma and accidents and patients suffering from chronic diseases. Providing safe and adequate supplies of blood and blood products should be an integral part of every country’s national health care policy system.

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For more information please contact :

Benjamin Sensasi, Health Promotion Advisor, WHO Country Office
Tel 256-41-335500
Email: sensasib [at] ug.afro.who.int