- Ngamiland grapples with severe blood shortage
- Only 560 units collected so far this year against regional target of 5,112 units
- Blood shortage remains a national health challenge
- Blood donations at all time low
- Misconceptions on blood donation a challenge
Like other parts of the country, Ngamiland has not been spared the problem of blood shortage, as it is currently grappling with severe blood shortage, with only around 560 units collected so far this year—far below the regional target of 5,112 units.
This alarming shortfall has prompted health care authorities to call on the community to step up and donate, as the long standing deficit poses a serious risk to patients in need of life-saving transfusions.
Principal Registered Nurse, John Basimare, who oversees blood collection efforts in the region, emphasised the urgency of the situation, stating that blood donation is not solely the responsibility of government but should be every citizen’s priority.
“We need to educate the public on maintaining healthy lifestyles and the importance of regular blood donation,” he said.
Basimare added, “regular blood donation can actually have several health benefits for the donor. Firstly it helps in the regulation of iron levels in the body. Too much iron can lead to oxidative stress, which may damage body tissues and by donating blood, excess iron is removed, potentially lowering the risk of heart-related complications.”
He also shared that the process of donating stimulates the production of new blood cells as the body works to replenish the lost supply and this can help maintain a healthy blood system.
Additionally, many blood donation centres perform basic health screenings before donation, which can help donors become aware of potential health issues early, such as high blood pressure or low haemoglobin levels.
Basimare further noted that misconceptions about blood donation, such as fears of weakness or illness post-donation, continue to deter potential donors.
“We have had many people say they fear falling ill or becoming weak after donating, but that is simply not true,” said the health official. “To show just how safe the process is, we even conduct our donation drives in public spaces—it’s completely safe and does not harm your health.”
Life Sambambi, a Nursing Officer who also oversees blood collection efforts in the region, emphasised that a communication gap exists between schools and the Ministry of Health regarding student blood donations.
He noted that many teachers face backlash from parents who believe their children should not be allowed to donate, which creates hesitation. He urged the government to address the issue by clarifying consent policies and bridging the gap to support smooth coordination.
Sambambi highlighted that increased awareness of the life-saving impact of blood donation could significantly boost donor turnout. He noted that many people are eligible to donate but simply don not realise how critical their contribution could be. In Botswana, individuals aged 16 to 65, weighing at least 50kg, in good health, and having had a proper meal prior to donation are generally eligible to donate blood.
“If more people truly understood just how important and life-saving blood donation is, we would see more individuals stepping up to donate,” said Sambambi. “It is not just about giving blood — it is about giving life.”
Regular blood donor Boago Gasefele shared his motivation for donating. “I have been deeply moved by the stories of people whose lives were saved through blood donation. It is fulfilling to know that my small act truly makes a difference,” he said. Gasefele encourages others to donate, noting that even a single act of kindness can have a life-changing impact.
The national demand for blood in Botswana stands at approximately 45,000 units annually, but collection rates have consistently fallen short. In Ngamiland, the gap between the target and actual collections underscores the need for increased community participation.
Healthcare workers stress that donating blood is a safe and simple process that can save lives. They urge eligible individuals to consider donating, as the current shortage could have dire consequences for patients requiring transfusions.
As Ngamiland continues to face this critical shortage, the message from healthcare professionals is clear: increased blood donations are essential to meet the region’s needs and ensure that life-saving transfusions are available for those who need them most.
