Monrovia – Alpha Tamba’s blood donation journey began in 2002, as a refugee residing in Kountaya camp in Guinea during the civil war in his home country Liberia, where he witnessed the devastating consequences of blood shortages. 

“I remember a woman who was bleeding heavily after childbirth, she desperately needed blood. The doctors in the camp asked residents to donate blood but no one came forward,” he says. The situation jogged a childhood memory. “I remembered the time when my friend's mother died during childbirth due to lack of blood for transfusion,” says Alpha. He felt compelled to step up and donate blood to the ailing woman. Witnessing the woman’s recovery gave him a profound sense of fulfilment, fuelling his desire to become a health care worker and a regular blood donor.

As Alpha pursued his dream of becoming a health care worker, he continued to be a champion for blood donation. In medical school, while conducting ward rounds, he encountered another woman, who was his blood type, in dire need of blood. Alpha did not hesitate. Remarkably, the woman turned out to be from his own community, creating a lasting bond between their families. 

Alpha believes in regular blood donation, not only in response to immediate needs, but also to ensure sufficient blood bank reserves. “Liberia, like many other African countries, has critical blood shortages and available blood could save many lives,” he says.

Alpha’s message is clear: blood donation is an act of love, kindness and sharing life. “Being young myself, I would like to encourage young people become regular blood donors. You never know the life that you save today could be of assistance to you or your loved ones tomorrow,” he says.