Banjul, The Gambia - June 14th marks the global observance of World Blood Donor Day, an occasion dedicated to acknowledging the invaluable contribution of voluntary, unpaid blood donors worldwide and raising awareness about the imperative demand for safe blood and blood products for transfusion. The theme for 2022, "Donating blood is an act of solidarity. Join the effort and save lives," underscores the pivotal role that voluntary blood donors play in national health systems.

In a statement issued to commemorate the day, Dr. Desta Tiruneh, WHO Country Representative for The Gambia, emphasized the vital significance of voluntary blood donations in enhancing access to safe blood and blood products. He highlighted the critical global issue of unequal access to blood, particularly in developing countries, where shortages pose a significant challenge. Dr. Tiruneh noted that in The Gambia, up to 54% of blood transfusions, crucial for women and children, face limitations, predominantly impacting cases related to pregnancy, severe childhood anemia due to malaria, and trauma.

Underlining the need for a reliable supply of safe blood, Dr. Tiruneh stressed the importance of unpaid, voluntary blood donors, acknowledging their status as the safest group due to the low prevalence of bloodborne infections among them. He called upon the public to increase voluntary blood donations, as currently, only 24.1% of the 15 to 20 thousand units of blood collected in The Gambia annually are from voluntary, unpaid contributions. This shortage has created a concerning gap between the demand and the availability of safe blood across the country, emphasizing the necessity for a stable base of regular, voluntary donors.

Despite The Gambia's comparatively high donation rate in the West African region, with 7.2 donations per 1000 inhabitants, Dr. Tiruneh pointed out that none of the 16 West African countries, including The Gambia, have met the WHO benchmark of 10 whole blood collections per 1000 inhabitants needed for a consistent blood supply. Encouraging citizens to contribute to changing this situation, Dr. Tiruneh stated, "We, as individuals, have the power to change this situation if we join the effort by donating blood and saving lives," emphasizing that a single unit of blood can potentially save the lives of up to three patients.

In addition to promoting voluntary blood donations, Dr. Tiruneh highlighted WHO's efforts in The Gambia to bolster the stability of the blood supply chain. Over the years, blood transfusion services have expanded to 11 major health centers and tertiary hospitals, a significant increase from the two facilities available in preceding years. The establishment of a central blood bank at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital further ensures efficient storage and distribution of blood as needed.

WHO is actively involved in guaranteeing the quality and safety of blood and blood products for transfusions. Dr. Tiruneh emphasized the ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Health to establish a standardized central quality assurance center, assessing the quality of systems for blood transfusion services in the country. Additionally, The Gambia is enrolled in an External Quality Assurance Program, supported by WHO and South African partners, aimed at enhancing the quality of blood transfusion services provided by Gambian facilities. In parallel, WHO is working closely with the Ministry of Health to update clinical guidelines on the use of blood and blood products, ensuring adherence to international standards. Anticipating the training of over 100 health workers throughout the country in the coming months, WHO Gambia remains committed to advancing healthcare practices related to blood transfusions.

Dr. Tiruneh concluded his remarks by expressing deep gratitude to the selfless Gambians who choose to donate blood, extending appreciation to the government of The Gambia and partners for their commitment to expanding blood services. He acknowledged the tireless efforts of blood services staff, research and development professionals, and medical teams, all contributing to the critical mission of maintaining a stable and life-saving blood supply in The Gambia.