Africa-Press – Eritrea. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has officially launched a satellite blood centre at Samburu County referral hospital as part of the efforts to improve access to safe blood and enhance emergency medical services across the country.
The launch coincided with the national celebrations for World Blood Donor Day, a global event observed annually.
This year’s theme, “Give blood, give hope: together we save lives,” emphasises the collective impact of blood donation in patient care and community health.
The new facility, Duale said, is expected to strengthen regional capacity for blood collection, screening, storage, and distribution, reducing delays in transfusion services and improving preparedness for medical emergencies.
During the event, the CS also presided over the county rollout of the digital health system.
This is in line with the Ministry’s broader agenda to digitise healthcare delivery and fast-track the realisation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Duale was accompanied by Samburu Governor Jonathan Lelelit, Women representative Pauline Lenguris and Medical Services Principal Secretary Ouma Oluga.
Others were Health Director General Patrick Amoth, SHA CEO Mercy Mwangangi, and acting Digital Health Agency CEO Anthony Lenaiyara.
What you need to know about the day
World Blood Donor Day is a global event observed every year on June 14.
It is aimed at raising awareness about the importance of safe blood donation and to thank voluntary, unpaid blood donors for their life-saving contributions.
The day also commemorates the birthday of Karl Landsteiner, the Nobel Prize-winning scientist who discovered blood groups.
Why is it important?
Millions of lives are saved every year through blood transfusions.
Blood is essential in treating trauma patients, women with pregnancy complications, children with severe anaemia, cancer patients, and those undergoing complex surgeries. A safe and sufficient blood supply relies on regular, voluntary donations.
Who organizes it?
The event is spearheaded by the World Health Organisation (WHO), in collaboration with governments, health authorities, blood transfusion services, and donor associations worldwide.
How is it marked?
Countries hold blood donation drives, awareness campaigns, recognition ceremonies for donors, and educational forums.
How can you get involved?
You can participate by donating blood regularly if you are eligible, encouraging others to become donors or even volunteering at blood donation events.
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