BY NELIWE NGUBANE(INTERN)
MBABANE – Acting Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Health Anthony Masilela has urged emaSwati to make blood donation a regular habit, describing it as one of the most powerful acts of humanity capable of saving countless lives across the country.
Masilela made the call during the World Blood Donor Day commemorations and the MTN 21 Days of Y’ello Care blood donation drive held at Coronation Park, where government officials, healthcare stakeholders and corporate partners gathered to promote the importance of voluntary blood donation.
Addressing attendees, Masilela highlighted the growing demand for blood in Eswatini and stressed the critical role donors play in sustaining the country’s healthcare system.
He explained that blood is essential for emergency medical care, surgeries, maternal healthcare services, trauma treatment and the management of chronic illnesses. Unlike many medical resources, blood cannot be manufactured and depends entirely on the willingness of people to donate.
“Every donation gives hope and a second chance at life to patients in need,” said Masilela.
He praised the Eswatini National Blood Transfusion Service for its ongoing efforts to maintain a safe and reliable blood supply, ensuring that hospitals and healthcare facilities have access to lifesaving blood when it is needed most.
Masilela also paid tribute to the country’s regular blood donors, commending their selflessness and commitment to helping others.
“These individuals continue to make a difference in the lives of strangers through a simple act of kindness,” he noted.
The Acting Principal Secretary further acknowledged the contribution of schools, churches and community organisations that continue to support blood collection campaigns across the country.
According to Masilela, their involvement has played a significant role in strengthening the national blood donation programme and raising awareness about the importance of donating blood.
He also applauded MTN Eswatini for its continued partnership with the Ministry of Health through the 21 Days of Y’ello Care campaign.
As part of its support, MTN donated blood donor beds, gazebos and branded materials, while also driving awareness campaigns aimed at encouraging more people to become blood donors.
Masilela said such partnerships demonstrate the impact that can be achieved when the public and private sectors work together towards a common goal.
Looking to the future, he encouraged young people to step forward and become regular blood donors, describing them as the next generation of lifesavers who will help secure the country’s blood supply for years to come.
He concluded by calling on government institutions, private sector partners and communities to continue working together to ensure that no patient suffers due to a shortage of blood.
Masilela emphasized that every unit of blood donated represents compassion, hope and humanity extended from one person to another.
As Eswatini marked World Blood Donor Day, the message remained clear — a single donation has the power to save multiple lives, and every donor has a vital role to play in strengthening the nation’s healthcare system.
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