The County Government of West Pokot joined healthcare workers, development partners, and residents in commemorating World Blood Donor Day 2026 at Chelang’a Gardens in Makutano Town, with a renewed call for increased voluntary blood donation to help save lives.
The event, organized by the West Pokot Satellite Blood Transfusion Centre under the theme “One Drop of Humanity: Give Blood, Save Lives,” brought together officials from the Ministry of Health, the Kenya Red Cross, the Kenya Blood Transfusion and Transplant Services (KBTTS), the World Health Organization (WHO), and members of the public.
Leading the celebrations was the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health and Sanitation, Ms. Claire Parklea, accompanied by Chief Officer for Health Dr. Irene Lopakale. The event sought to create awareness on the importance of voluntary blood donation while recognizing the critical role blood donors play in saving lives.
Speaking during the event, Ms. Parklea emphasized that blood donation is a simple act of humanity that can make the difference between life and death for patients in need.
“Working on today’s theme, ‘One Drop of Humanity,’ we value human lives by donating blood to save lives,” she said.
She urged residents of West Pokot to embrace voluntary blood donation and participate in future blood drives in large numbers.
“You may never know whose life your donation will save. It could be a child, a mother, a road accident victim, or even someone close to you. Donating blood is one of the greatest gifts we can give to fellow human beings,” she added.
Demonstrating her commitment to the cause, the CECM personally donated blood during the exercise, noting that it was her fifth time doing so.
“This is my fifth time donating blood because I understand its value. Every donation has the potential to help someone in their moment of need,” she said.
She explained that not everyone who turns up is automatically allowed to donate blood, as medical assessments are conducted to ensure donor safety. Prospective donors undergo checks including blood pressure screening, haemoglobin (HB) testing, weight measurement, and other health assessments before being declared eligible.
The exercise targeted the collection of at least 100 pints of blood, which will help replenish stocks in the county’s blood bank and support emergency medical services.
According to Ms. Parklea, the blood collected will not only benefit patients within West Pokot but will also support neighboring counties whenever emergencies arise.
“The blood donated today will serve our county and, when necessary, assist neighboring counties. Having adequate blood reserves in our satellite blood bank allows us to respond quickly whenever emergencies occur across borders,” she noted.
She further thanked Governor Simon Kachapin for supporting the establishment of a fully operational satellite blood bank in the county, describing it as a major milestone in strengthening healthcare services.
“The satellite blood bank is strategically positioned to serve our residents. It allows people to donate blood whenever they are able, ensuring availability of this lifesaving resource throughout the year,” she said.
Beyond blood donation, residents were encouraged to register for the Social Health Authority (SHA) to access affordable healthcare services, particularly at Level Two and Level Three health facilities.
Ms. Parklea noted that healthcare services have increasingly been digitized, making registration important for efficient service delivery.
“When patients visit our health facilities, their records can easily be accessed through the digital system. Being registered under SHA ensures smoother access to services and helps improve healthcare delivery,” she explained.
The CECM acknowledged that one of the biggest challenges facing blood donation campaigns remains misinformation and fear among some residents.
“Some people are still skeptical about donating blood because they fear they may not return to their normal lives afterward. Civic education remains critical in helping communities understand that blood donation is safe and beneficial,” she said.
To address these concerns, health officials have intensified public awareness campaigns through local radio stations, social media platforms, and community outreach programs to educate residents and encourage participation.
Chief Officer for Health Dr. Irene Lopakale praised the support of development partners and stakeholders who continue to strengthen blood transfusion services in the county.
The event also featured donor and beneficiary testimonies, public awareness sessions, entertainment, and recognition of individuals and institutions that have made outstanding contributions to blood donation initiatives.
As the celebrations concluded, residents were reminded that a single blood donation can save multiple lives, underscoring the event’s message that every drop of blood donated is indeed a powerful act of humanity.
By Parklea Ivor
