The Blood Transfusion Service of Namibia is experiencing critically low blood stocks, the lowest the reserves have been in the past four years. 

The state of the nation's blood stocks is significantly low, and NAMBTS urgently calls on Namibians to give blood to help meet the heightened demand.

Blood usage increased rapidly during the weeks leading up to December, while blood collection figures were below par due to public holidays observed during the festive season. 
 
Various trauma accidents, scheduled operations, and patients with illnesses that require many units of blood resulted in staggering amounts of blood used throughout December to help save the lives of patients.

In a media statement, NAMBTS Supervisor, Marketing, and Donor Relations Officer Titus Shivute says they are experiencing a high demand for blood from hospitals across the country. 

The nation's blood stocks, he said, are extremely strained, compelling their appeal for increased blood donations in aid of those who may need transfusions during this period.

He adds that there is enough blood in stock for approximately two days, which is a great cause for concern. 

As Namibians return to school and work, citizens are urged to donate blood as soon as possible at their nearest blood collection clinics.

With only 1.2% of the Namibian population donating blood annually, NAMBTS needs the assistance of more Namibians of all blood types to regularly donate blood this year to avoid a situation where patients are unable to receive transfusions. 

NAMBTS has extended the operating hours of blood donation clinics and will further host two emergency blood donation clinics on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Windhoek and Rehoboth.