RUSTENBURG HERALD - RUSTENBURG - One day. One continent. One purpose.
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) will join blood services across Africa for a ground-breaking blood donation event, Red Saturday, scheduled for Saturday, 29 November. The event aims to engage thousands of donors across five nations, collecting lifesaving blood donations to support hospitals and patients in need.
Red Saturday is more than a blood drive, it represents African unity and solidarity, a collective effort to address blood shortages across the continent, and a celebration of the lifesaving power of voluntary blood donation.
The initiative carries a simple yet powerful message: Voluntary blood donation saves lives.
New donors are urgently needed to ensure a safe and sufficient blood supply, and blood is needed continuously – not only in emergencies, but every single day.
Five nations – South Africa, Namibia, Ghana, Ethiopia, and Tanzania – have confirmed their participation in this historic event. Together, they will mobilise communities, inspire donors, and showcase Africa’s united commitment to saving lives.
"At the South African National Blood Service, we believe that the gift of blood is a shared act of humanity, one that transcends borders and brings our continent closer together," said Thandi Mosupye, Senior Manager: Marketing, Communication and Brand, at SANBS. "Through Red Saturday, Africa speaks with one voice of compassion, unity, and purpose - proving that together, we can save countless lives."
Through coordinated local events, Red Saturday aims to inspire first-time donors to take action, encourage regular donors to continue their lifesaving contributions, to highlight the power of unity in addressing healthcare challenges and to amplify the message of hope, compassion, and community.
"We hope that new donors across Africa will roll up their sleeves under the banner of Red Saturday, proving that when Africa stands together, lives are changed, hope is renewed, and the heartbeat of the continent grows stronger."
Blood donation requirements:
* Age: 16 to 75
* Weight: 50kg or above
* Good general health or no recent illness
* Leading a safe lifestyle
* A commitment to donate regularly
* Eat a meal or snack before donating
* Increase fluid intake before and after donation.
Lifestyle Donor Centre (1st Floor, Lifestyle Square) business hours:
Monday - 10:00 to 17:00
Tuesday - 09:00 - 18:00
Wednesday-Friday - 09:00 to 17:00
Saturday - 09:00 to 15:00
Sunday - Closed
* For more information visit www.sanbs.org.za or contact 0800 119 031.
