• YOUTH

The process and price of saving lives

• 23 Hours Ago

The Blood Transfusion Service of Namibia (NamBTS) hosted a media day at its headquarters in Windhoek last week, providing journalists and media representatives with an in-depth look at its operations.

The event aimed to educate the attendees on the critical role of blood donation, the processes involved in ensuring a safe and sufficient blood supply, and the financial and logistical aspects of maintaining this service.



Inside NamBTS

Zita Tobin, manager of marketing and donor relations, outlined NamBTS’s mission, challenges such as the low turnout of donors during the festive days which causes a low supply of blood, and future initiatives. She emphasised the organisation’s ongoing efforts to increase blood donations and enhance public awareness.

Another highlight was the donor division tour, led by Sr Judith Sinvula, where the media observed the process of blood collection, processing and storage. This was followed by the technical division tour, guided by division manager Hilary Charuma who provided insight into the advanced screening and testing procedures that ensure the safety of donated blood.



Ensuring donor and patient safety

Addressing concerns surrounding blood donation, medical officer Dr Carla Van Zyl elaborated on donor safety programmes, explaining the measures in place to protect both donors and recipients. She assured the attendees that strict health and safety protocols govern every stage of the donation process.

The event also featured powerful personal testimonials.

Aurora Mota and Camilla Mbeandavi, both recipients of life saving blood transfusions, shared their emotional experiences, expressing their gratitude to donors and NamBTS.

At the same time, Izaane Smith, a committed blood donor who has donated more than 20 times, spoke about the sense of fulfillment that comes from knowing her contributions help save lives.



The cost of blood

Chief operations officer Israel Chipare gave an overview of NamBTS operations, offering a detailed breakdown of the financial aspects of sustaining the country’s blood supply.

He highlighted the significant costs associated with collection, testing, storage and distribution, shedding light onto the fact that there is a need for continuous support from donors and stakeholders. He briefly showed the attendees a price comparison of the fees of major blood products charged between Namibia , South Africa and Zimbabwe during 2024 with Namibia providing the lowest fees for major blood products compared to the other two countries.

‘’At the end of the day, the price of blood is not set without the permission granted by the board of donors which consists of donors who are elected by other donors to represent their views and well being on the board," Chipare said.

The event concluded with a Q&A session where attendees had the opportunity to engage with NamBTS officials, ask pressing questions and clarify key aspects of blood donation.

Tobin wrapped up the session with a word of thanks, emphasising the crucial role the media plays in educating the public and encouraging greater participation in blood donation efforts.

With an urgent need for regular blood donations in Namibia, NamBTS hopes that this initiative will inspire more individuals to step forward and contribute to this cause.