Africa-Press – South-Sudan. The South Sudan Red Cross awarded certificates, bicycles, cups, and pens to over 60 frequent blood donors in Eastern Equatoria State last Thursday.
The recognition took place during the commemoration of World Blood Donor Day at Torit Freedom Square under the theme, “Give Blood, Share Life, Share Often.”
Thousands of people gathered to mark the occasion, participating in slogans and dramas aimed at encouraging voluntary blood donation to save lives frequently lost due to blood shortages at Torit State Hospital. Throughout the day, many individuals of goodwill were seen lining up to donate blood.
During the event, Obulejo James, Assistant Manager for the Blood Bank at Torit State Hospital, explained that three frequent blood donors were presented with bicycles, while others received certificates and various gifts based on the criteria set by the South Sudan Red Cross.
He highlighted the contributions of Kilama Martin, who had donated blood 31 times at Torit State Hospital and a total of 11 times overall. Martin, who began donating blood at the age of 16, was awarded a bicycle as a gesture of appreciation for his ongoing commitment to saving lives.
Wani John, another frequent blood donor who received a gift, expressed his happiness at being able to help others. He emphasized that donating blood has no adverse side effects, such as headaches or other health-related problems. John stated, “I am delighted to assist fellow human beings and keep them alive. I have selflessly donated my blood, starting from Uganda and now at Torit State Hospital. I have donated 18 times throughout my life, and today marks my 19th donation. Many people question whether giving blood will harm me, but I assured them that our bodies replenish the blood we donate through the food we consume. Donors are not limited to those who consume chips and chicken. Our blood is the same.”
Jane Kiden, a female laboratory assistant at the blood bank in Torit, shared a heartfelt story about how her selfless act of donating blood saved the life of a 2-year-old child. She described how the child, who was critically ill at the time, is now healthy and thriving thanks in part to the blood she donated. Kiden attributed her decision to give blood to her generous heart and her belief that God rewarded her by blessing her with twins.
“People questioned me about potential side effects after donating blood, but I assured them that I donated out of kindness and experienced no adverse effects. I wish more people would be willing to donate blood voluntarily,” Kiden added.
Fanan Simplico, the head of the South Sudan Red Cross branch in Torit, expressed gratitude to the regular blood donors for their efforts to save lives. He encouraged healthy individuals to continue voluntarily donating blood, emphasizing the importance of universal access to safe blood products.
“The purpose of this day is to encourage people in good health to donate blood regularly. There are always people in need of blood. As we witness the testimony of the boy who received blood, there are others who, having grown up and become healthy, now give back by donating blood to help others. This day is celebrated to highlight the roles of volunteers and ensure universal access to safe blood products for all,” said Simplico.
He further explained, “Voluntary blood donation means that nobody can force you to give blood, but because you recognize the importance of life, you willingly contribute. We, along with the state government and donors, must collaborate to mobilize resources at the state, national, regional, and global levels to ensure sustainable equipment and support for this blood project in hospitals.”
Jennifer Nabongorika Edward, the Eastern Equatoria State minister of Gender and acting Health minister, stressed the need to assist people in need during challenging times. She cautioned against selfishness when it comes to saving lives, stating, “Selfishness is detrimental. If you are healthy but refuse to donate blood, it means you are being selfish and unwilling to help. We should not display such selfishness. We must recognize that circumstances can change, and the person in need could be ourselves. So, when you have the opportunity to help, please do so. Let us have a generous and helpful heart at all times.”
With this event, the South Sudan Red Cross and the community of blood donors have demonstrated their commitment to saving lives through voluntary blood donations. Their efforts serve as a reminder of the importance of selflessness and compassion in ensuring the availability of safe blood for those in need.
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