The Malawi Blood Transfusion Services (MBTS) says it requires 140 000 pints of blood this year to meet the national demand and ensure hospitals have enough supply.
Blood Donor Manager for MBTS, Mervis Chirwa made the revelations during blood donation exercise in Lilongwe.
Speaking to ProjectM, Chirwa said to fight shortage of blood the institution has extended its outreach programmes by conducting awarenesses in market places, schools, among other things.
“The shortage of blood is largely because of over 75% of donors are students of the age group of 16 to 25 resulting in disruption in supply during holidays,” she said.
Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS) Head of Health, Dan Kamombosola Banda said his organisation is taking an initiative blood shortage through the community sensitisation and education.
“We also want to join hands in reaching out to the rural masses to encourage them on the importance of donating blood,” he added.
District Nursing Officer for Lilongwe, Mercy Chimbalanga said Lilongwe caters for the largest population; hence, the need for more blood.
She said hospitals lack enough blood for patients in need.
