A TOTAL of 2,400 people are expected to donate blood to meet the annual demand of 18,851 litres in the Arusha region through a campaign led by WHOISHUSSAIN—a non-profit organisation.

The organisation is spearheading a campaign for eye screening and blood donation in Arusha aimed at assisting patients at the Arusha Referral Hospital.

During the campaign launch, Regional Medical Officer (RMO) Dr Omary Chande praised the organization for its consistent blood donations in the region, acknowledging the critical role of blood supply in supporting vulnerable groups such as expectant mothers, children, and accident victims.

Warda Kaita, Coordinator for Blood Transfusion Services in Arusha Region, stated that the region requires 18,851 litres of blood annually, equating to 1,576 bottles per month. The primary beneficiaries of this blood are expectant mothers and accident victims.

Ghullam Hussain Mukhtar, a key partner in the region's development, called on citizens to volunteer for blood donation to save lives, while commending WHOISHUSSAIN for their community support initiatives. "I commend Hussain for their commendable work; today they have organised a free eye screening camp and are leading in blood donation activities. We pray that God blesses and strengthens all blood donors; we expect 2,400 donors, and we are hopeful as more than 40 have already arrived," said Mukhtar.

Pastor Yohana Mwampamba underscored the importance for Tanzanians to donate blood to save the lives of patients in critical need.

Dr Hamza Sajan, Coordinator for the organisation, explained that donating blood promotes the body's production of new blood cells and helps prevent diseases such as high blood pressure and heart disease. He highlighted that this initiative occurs quarterly under the institute's supervision.

Several blood donors expressed that donating blood to aid others is a divine gift that brings them joy. Abdulaaziz Hamisi noted that blood donation has no negative effects and strengthens the body against conditions like high blood pressure and heart disease, while ensuring good health after medical tests. 

Juma Mbaringo emphasised that donating blood for others is a natural gift from God, asserting that blood is not sold or manufactured in labs but is obtained through the goodwill of donors.