More than 30 people donated blood today as Vanuatu joined the global celebration of World Blood Donor Day.
This year’s theme, “Give blood, give hope: together we save lives”, honours everyday heroes who voluntarily donate blood to help save others.
Though World Blood Donor Day is observed annually on June 14th ,the Ministry of Health through the Vila Central Hospital marked the event on June 16th with its partners, including the Embassy of Japan in Vanuatu and the Vanuatu Red Cross Society.
Peter Tosul of Vila Central Hospital said blood donation remains a challenge in Vanuatu.
“Every day we receive between 15 and 20 blood requests. Our fridges can hold up to 50 units, but we often fall short. Blood only lasts 35 to 42 days in storage, so we prioritize urgent cases. In one month, we issue around 100 to 200 units,” Tosul said.
Senior health officer with the Red Cross, Denny Manvoi, encouraged more people to support the blood donation program.
“Especially young people and countries are encouraged to organize events that promote community engagement, celebrate donors, and highlight the life-saving impact of blood donation,” Manvoi said. “The campaign also aims to raise awareness of the ongoing need for safe blood, promote the values of solidarity and compassion, and mobilize support to strengthen the national blood system.”
Despite the rainy weather, civil servants and public workers turned out to donate today, with the event focusing on honouring regular blood donors as heroes.
One long-time donor, Jackson Lava from the Office of the Public Prosecutor, shared, “..a good example is a little girl in the hospital right now. She needs more blood to survive. Donating blood is a great way to save lives.”
Keith Rafou of the Vanuatu Mobile Force added, “The hospital is open to blood donors at any time to help families who are in need for blood. It’s not just today that we donate blood, we can donate blood anytime at the hospital.”
The day ended with strong awareness messages about the importance of blood donation and a public call to continue donating to save lives in urgent need.
