South Africa
Huge need for blood: SANBS calls for New Year donations─── ZENANDE MPAME 16:37 Mon, 12 Jan 2026
As South Africans return to their normal routine in January, the South African National Blood Service is calling on the public to donate blood.
People are urged to donate as blood supplies are low after the festive season. The blood service is encouraging donors, particularly those with O and B blood groups, to donate as early as possible in the year.
The blood services explained O negative is the universal blood type used in emergencies, and group B contributes to maintaining balanced stock for specific patient groups.
Several factors contribute to the January dip in blood stocks, such as most businesses, schools, and universities being closed during the Christmas holidays, and the fact that fewer people donated blood.
“The need for blood never stops,” said Free State and Northern Cape head of donor relations, Jana Wallace. “Patients in hospitals, including mothers, children, and people living with chronic conditions, rely on a stable blood supply every single day.
“A single blood donation takes only a short time and can save up to three lives, helping us rebuild bloodstock labels early in the year and ensuring uninterrupted care for the patients across the country.”
Potential donors between the ages of 16 and 75, who weigh 50 kg or more, and are in good general health and lead a safe sexual lifestyle, may be eligible to donate blood.
The SANBS explains in this diagram what happens to blood donations. Photo: sanbs.org.za
Donating blood is also a great way for young people to learn more about their health. The screening process before donation includes checks for blood pressure, haemoglobin levels, and other vital signs, providing valuable health insights at no cost.
To keep up with the ongoing demand for blood in the healthcare system, SANBS aims to collect a minimum of 3,500 units daily, enough to save as many as 9,000 lives. Every unit of donated blood can save at least three lives, as blood is separated into red blood cells, plasma, and platelets.
“We appreciate every South African who donates blood, and we want to start the year by saying thank you,” said SANBS marketing, communication, and brand manager Thandi Mosupye.
“Whether you are an O, A, B, or AB donor, your contribution matters, and we welcome you.”
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