By Ahmed Salat | AARAN TV KE
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has renewed the Government's call for voluntary blood donation, describing it as a life-saving act of humanity that remains critical to the country's healthcare system and the realization of Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Speaking during the 2026 World Blood Donor Day celebrations at Garissa High School in Garissa County, held under the theme "One Drop of Humanity: Give Blood, Save Lives," Duale emphasized the indispensable role of blood donation in saving lives and supporting emergency medical care.
"Blood is an irreplaceable resource in healthcare. It is vital for mothers facing childbirth complications, children suffering from severe anaemia, accident victims, and patients undergoing surgery or cancer treatment," said Duale.
The Cabinet Secretary noted that the Government continues to strengthen blood services and improve healthcare delivery through targeted interventions aimed at reducing preventable deaths and enhancing access to quality medical care.
He highlighted key national health programmes, including the Every Woman Every Newborn Everywhere (EWENE) initiative and the Rapid Results Initiative, which seek to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes across the country.
Duale also revealed that the implementation of the Social Health Authority (SHA) is gaining momentum in Garissa County, with more than 250,000 residents already registered under the national health insurance scheme.
"In a significant step towards expanding healthcare coverage, Community Health Promoters will be enrolled under the SHA Comprehensive Cover beginning July 1, 2026," he announced.
On emergency healthcare services, the CS said the Government has continued to invest in critical response infrastructure, including the deployment of three ambulances donated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to strengthen emergency medical services in the region.
He further assured residents that Kenya remains vigilant and prepared to respond to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in parts of the region through enhanced disease surveillance, rapid response mechanisms, and strengthened public health systems.
The celebrations culminated in a two-day medical camp that provided screening services for major health conditions, attracting hundreds of residents seeking medical attention and health advice.
A total of 350 pints of blood were donated during the event, underscoring the community's commitment to saving lives and demonstrating the power of voluntary blood donation in strengthening healthcare delivery.
Health officials hailed the turnout as a remarkable show of solidarity, compassion, and civic responsibility, noting that every pint donated has the potential to save multiple lives.
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