FAITH NDOU
MASVINGO — The National Blood Services Zimbabwe (NBSZ), in partnership with Redan Petroleum, collected 427 units of blood during a successful donation drive held in Masvingo at Redan Pangolin on Friday.
National Blood Service Zimbabwe Communications Officer Vickie Maponga confirmed the figures to The Midweek Watch, saying, “We have collected 427 units of blood, comprising 110 units from female donors and 317 units from male donors.”
Donors began arriving as early as 0700 hours in their numbers to donate blood and help boost national supplies.
The initiative was aimed at increasing blood bank stocks ahead of the reopening of schools while also raising awareness on the importance of blood donation in saving lives.
Speaking during the campaign, Redan Pangolin Manager Nyasha Muzenda said the partnership with NBSZ reflects the company’s commitment to supporting life-saving community initiatives.
“We are encouraged by the response from the people of Masvingo. Blood donation is critical because it helps save lives in hospitals every day, especially for accident victims, mothers and patients in need of emergency care,” said Muzenda.
Muzenda added that the campaign has become a regular programme conducted before schools open to ensure adequate blood supplies are available.
“As stakeholders in the community, we believe in giving back and supporting health-related programmes that directly benefit the public,” she said.
As a token of appreciation, donors received 5-litre fuel coupons for every unit donated.
“As a blood donor, I would like to commend the improvements made at Redan this time around. Previously, there were cases of stolen coupons which affected the smooth running of the process, but this time security was greatly improved and proper measures were put in place. The whole exercise was well organised, orderly, and fast. Donors were attended to efficiently, making the experience more comfortable and encouraging for everyone. Keep up the good work in creating a safe and well-managed environment for blood donors,” said Kelvin Matora, a regular donor.
The latest figures were slightly lower than the 458 units collected during a similar campaign held in September last year.
NBSZ has continued to encourage regular blood donations, noting that men can donate blood every three months while women can donate every four months due to biological reasons.
