Hey Africa! 🌍 It's time to be a hero without a cape. The World Health Organization (WHO) is calling on all of us to step up and donate blood to save lives across the continent. 🩸
On World Blood Donor Day, Matshidiso Moeti, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, highlighted the urgent need for more safe blood donations to help those facing life-threatening emergencies, like accidents and surgeries. 🚑
Despite efforts to raise awareness, Africa is still playing catch-up when it comes to blood donations. On average, African countries collect just 5.2 units of blood per 1,000 people. That's half of the WHO's recommended 10 units, and a far cry from the 33 units collected in developed countries. 😮
\"The demand for blood remains constant, but supply often falls short,\" Moeti said. \"We need to find innovative ways to encourage more people to donate blood voluntarily.\" 💡
Over the past decade, the WHO has been working with African nations to boost blood donation efforts. Many countries have developed new policies and strategies, and the number of countries with a national blood policy has increased from 37 in 2015 to 43 in 2022. 📈
But there's still work to do! Only 18 out of 47 countries have reached the goal of getting at least 80% of their blood supply from voluntary donors. Moeti is urging governments to inspire citizens—especially young people—to see blood donation as a patriotic duty. 🇿🇦🇳🇬🇰🇪
So, why not be someone's lifesaver? Donating blood is safe, easy, and it could make you someone's hero. Let's come together and make a difference! 💪❤️
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
