By Dickson Bandera
Preparations are at an advanced stage for Zimbabwe’s annual World Blood Donor Day (WBDD) commemorations, set to take place this Saturday, June 15, at Jameson High School in Kadoma.
It is for the first time that the commemorations are held in Mashonaland West and thousands are expected to attend.
According to a statement from the National Blood Service Zimbabwe (NBSZ), the commemorations will feature a range of activities designed to engage the public, raise awareness, and honour those who donate blood voluntarily and regularly.
“This year marks a historic moment as World Blood Donor Day is being commemorated in Kadoma for the very first time. We are targeting 600 units of blood, with support from students, members of the Pledge 25 Club Zimbabwe, and regular adult donors,” reads the NBSZ statement.
Observed every year on June 14, World Blood Donor Day was designated by the World Health Organization to celebrate voluntary blood donors and to encourage more people to donate blood regularly. The theme for 2024 is “Give blood, give hope—together we save lives.”
The NBSZ said the campaign aims to highlight the life-saving impact of blood donation, encourage first-time donors to come forward, and recognise the invaluable contributions of existing donors.
“We want to highlight the critical need for regular blood and plasma donations and their impact on patients’ lives. The act of donating blood can mean the difference between life and death for someone else,” the statement continues.
As part of the build-up to the main event, a blood donation awareness procession will take place in Harare on Wednesday, June 11. Participants will march from Africa Unity Square to the NBSZ offices in what the organisers describe as a symbolic show of solidarity with patients who rely on blood transfusions.
“This initiative is more than a march—it is a movement for life, for hope, and for the countless patients whose survival depends on the generosity of donors,” reads the statement.
The NBSZ also expressed appreciation to institutions such as the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) for their continued participation in national blood donation drives.
“Their commitment has played a significant role in ensuring our blood banks remain stocked. Their involvement reinforces the message that blood donation is a collective responsibility,” the organisation said.
The NBSZ is calling on all healthy individuals aged 16 to 60, and weighing at least 50kg, to consider donating blood.
“To those eligible—your simple act of donating blood could be the reason someone gets a second chance at life. Join us in Kadoma this Saturday. Let’s stand together, give together, and save lives together,” reads the statement.
Members of the public, private companies, and civil society groups are encouraged to support the event through participation, sponsorship, or advocacy.
