EMBU, Kenya – Residents across the Mt. Kenya region have been urged to adopt a culture of regular and voluntary blood donation to help bridge a growing shortage at the Embu Regional Blood Transfusion Centre.
According to the centre’s Regional Manager, Daniel Wachira, the facility — which serves nine counties — is currently operating at a 30 per cent deficit of the blood required to meet patient needs.
Speaking during a blood donation drive in Embu Town, Wachira said the centre needs at least 1,000 units of blood every month to cater for patients from Embu, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Laikipia, Isiolo, Marsabit, Tharaka Nithi, and Meru counties.
“We are currently short by about 30 per cent of the required blood units,” Wachira said, warning that the deficit poses serious challenges for hospitals across the region.
He emphasised that consistent voluntary blood donations are crucial to ensure sufficient supply for patients — especially expectant mothers, road accident victims, and those battling leukaemia and other cancers.
Wachira also reminded residents that men can donate blood up to four times a year, while women can do so three times annually, with a minimum interval of four months between donations.
The drive, organised by the Lions Club of Embu, aims to mobilise residents to give blood regularly rather than wait until emergencies strike.
Lions Club President Dr Patrick Gathondu said the initiative is part of the club’s community service mission to help sustain blood banks.
“Blood donation should not be a last-minute act of desperation,” Dr Gathondu said. “When you donate regularly, you save lives — and you also receive a donor card that guarantees access to blood for you or your loved ones when in need.”
The appeal comes amid growing demand for blood across the country, with national health agencies calling for greater public participation to strengthen Kenya’s healthcare system through voluntary blood donation.
