SANBS Appeals for Blood Donations as 2026 Begins with Low National Stocks
The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has issued an urgent appeal to the public to start 2026 by donating blood, warning that national blood stocks remain below optimal levels following the festive season.
January is traditionally one of the most difficult months for blood collection. Increased holiday travel, fewer workplace and campus blood drives, and disrupted donor routines over December contribute to a sharp decline in donations. At the same time, the demand for blood does not slow down.
Hospitals across the country continue to rely on blood supplies for emergency medical care, childbirth, trauma cases and the treatment of chronic illnesses. SANBS says this constant demand places ongoing pressure on already strained blood reserves.
“These statistics represent real people, mothers, fathers and children, whose recovery, and sometimes survival, depends on donated blood,” SANBS said in a statement.
The organisation is particularly encouraging donors with O and B blood groups who are eligible to donate to visit donor centres early in the year. O-negative blood is especially critical in emergencies as it can be used for patients of any blood type, while group B donations are vital for maintaining balanced stock levels. However, SANBS emphasised that all blood groups are urgently needed.
“January is a challenging month for collections, but it is also an opportunity,” said Thandi Mosupye, Senior Manager for Marketing, Communication and Brand at SANBS. “If donors make time to donate early in the year, we can stabilise the national blood supply and ensure hospitals continue caring for patients without interruption.”
A single blood donation takes only a few minutes and can save up to three lives. SANBS is urging all eligible South Africans to visit their nearest donor centre or mobile blood drive and help ensure a strong and life-saving start to 2026.
Members of the public can contact SANBS or visit their local donation centres for more information on how to donate.
Cortesy: Meropa Communication