Duale Calls for Increased Voluntary Blood Donation to Strengthen Lifesaving Healthcare Services
Garissa, - Cabinet Secretary for Health Hon. Aden Duale has called on Kenyans to embrace voluntary blood donation as a lifesaving act that supports emergency care, maternal health, surgeries, cancer treatment and the management of severe medical conditions requiring transfusion.
The Cabinet Secretary made the remarks during the 2026 World Blood Donor Day commemorations held at Garissa High School in Garissa County under the theme, “One Drop of Humanity: Give Blood, Save Lives.” The event brought together health officials, development partners, blood donors and members of the public to celebrate the invaluable contribution of voluntary blood donors in saving lives and strengthening healthcare delivery.
Hon. Duale noted that blood remains one of the most critical and irreplaceable resources in healthcare, emphasizing that access to safe and adequate blood supplies is essential for the delivery of quality healthcare services and the achievement of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
He underscored the importance of blood transfusion services in reducing maternal and newborn deaths, particularly among women experiencing severe complications during childbirth, and called for sustained efforts to strengthen blood donation and transfusion systems across the country.
The Cabinet Secretary highlighted progress in the implementation of the Social Health Authority (SHA) in Garissa County, noting that more than 250,000 residents have registered under the programme. He further announced that Community Health Promoters will be enrolled under the SHA comprehensive cover beginning through a joint initiative between the National and County Governments.
To strengthen emergency healthcare services in the county, Hon. Duale announced the deployment of three ambulances donated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to enhance referral services and improve access to timely medical care.
The Cabinet Secretary also assured residents that Kenya remains vigilant and prepared to respond to the ongoing regional Ebola outbreak. He cited the operational isolation centre at Garissa County Referral Hospital and other preparedness measures that have been put in place to safeguard public health.
Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to strengthening the health workforce, Hon. Duale said efforts are underway to transition Universal Health Coverage health workers to permanent and pensionable terms to enhance service delivery and improve healthcare outcomes.
The World Blood Donor Day commemorations concluded with a two-day medical camp that offered screening services for non-communicable diseases, diabetes, cancer, hypertension, HIV and hepatitis. The exercise also collected 350 pints of blood, contributing to national blood reserves and supporting patients in need of lifesaving transfusion services.