SANBS calls for urgent public support as blood reserves decline

The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has appealed to the public to donate blood as national blood stocks have dropped to a critical level ahead of the festive season. The service says daily collections remain well below the required 3 500 units needed to meet demand. SANBS warns that the shortage could affect the availability of blood for emergency treatment, accident victims and life-saving surgeries. South Africa, we need your help! Blood collections are falling behind demand, putting increasing pressure on the national blood supply. SANBS needs to collect 3,500 units of blood every day to meet patients’ needs and maintain the ideal five-day blood supply for hospitals. Your donation can help ensure blood is available when patients need it most. Donate blood today and #BeTheLifeline. — The SANBS (@theSANBS) October 17, 2026 SANBS Spokesperson Neelashan Govender explains that they need to maintain a 5-day blood supply constantly. “However, for the past several weeks, our blood stocks have been declining, and this is due to several factors. One being the fact that KZN is relying on schools and our universities. So, with schools going into exams and as we approach the holiday period, historically, blood stocks generally do drop during this time.” “But, over the last week, we’ve dropped to critical levels, and as of last week, we’ve dropped below 3.4 days.” VIDEO | SANBS calls for blood donations: Oscar Ramutsheli weighs in: