The County Government of Trans Nzoia, in collaboration with several key partners, organized a special blood donation drive in Kitale town to celebrate this Valentine’s Day.
The initiative, coordinated by the county's Blood Transfusion Center and supported by the Allanet Foundation, Kenya Red Cross, and the Trans Nzoia Manchester United Fans Club, saw generous volunteers come together to donate blood, spreading love in its most meaningful form.
The Trans Nzoia County Blood Transfusion Coordinator Yona Kutete emphasized the importance of such drives in meeting the ever-growing demand for blood.
"We are targeting at least 200 units of blood. The demand in our hospitals is higher, yet our blood banks are running empty," Mr. Yona said.
He urged more community members to step forward and donate, highlighting that every donation can potentially save a life.
Everline Masinde Chichi, a representative from the Allanet Foundation, explained the organization's motivation behind joining the initiative.
"We decided to share love by donating blood. By participating in this blood donation drive, we are contributing to the spread of love on this special day," Chichi remarked.
Herman Ngaira, a representative from the Kenya Red Cross in Trans Nzoia, used the opportunity to encourage residents to make regular blood donation a habit.
"Blood has become a scarce resource in our hospitals, and we are determined to ensure that the blood banks are replenished. We call on the community to make blood donation a regular part of their lives," Ngaira urged.
Toto Frida, the chairlady of the Manchester United Fans Club in Trans Nzoia, echoed this sentiment, saying that Valentine’s Day provided the perfect occasion to show love to those in desperate need.
"This is the best way we can show love to those in need of blood in hospitals. Every donation counts and could save someone's life," Frida said, calling on fellow fans and residents to join in the noble cause.
Blood transfusions are critical for treating a variety of medical conditions, including accidents, surgeries, and complications during childbirth. Many patients suffering from anemia, cancer, or other blood-related disorders also rely on timely blood donations.
The organizers expressed hope that such initiatives would inspire more people to donate and foster a culture of giving back to the community.