Rwanda hits 99.47% blood supply coverage

By The Inspirer.

The Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) has announced that the country has achieved a 99.47% success rate in meeting hospitals’ demands for blood supplies for patients in need.

Dr. Christopher Gashaija, the Head of the Blood Transfusion Department at RBC in Kigali, attributed this success to specific strategies ensuring timely access to blood for those who need it.

He noted that although Rwanda has not yet met the standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO) for blood sufficiency, the country has an adequate supply to meet hospital demands.

“WHO has set benchmarks for countries to achieve blood sufficiency, but Rwanda’s medical services have significantly advanced.” He stated.

Last year, Rwanda collected over 86,000 units of blood, falling short of the WHO target of 140,000 units per year.

Dr. Gashaija explained: “In terms of meeting hospital needs, when a doctor requests blood, it is immediately available. We are at a 99.47% success rate.”

“If we were to aim for the WHO target of 140,000 units, a significant amount of blood might go to waste.” He added.

Dr. Gashaija highlighted that Rwanda’s ability to meet blood demand is due to measures implemented to prevent diseases that increase the need for blood transfusions.

“If you look at diseases like malaria, cases have decreased. Additionally, the police’s Gerayo Amahoro road safety campaign has significantly reduced accidents, which in turn reduces the need for blood.” He elaborated.

He also mentioned efforts to reduce maternal deaths during childbirth, which has led to fewer women needing blood transfusions due to postpartum hemorrhage.

RBC has urged individuals with O-negative blood type to donate regularly, as it is frequently in high demand.

 “There are very few people who consistently donate O-negative blood, yet it is needed by many.” Dr. Gashaija explained.

He pointed out that O-negative blood is particularly needed because it is universally compatible and is often prescribed for pregnant women during delivery.

He also emphasized the importance of blood type compatibility for pregnant women and individuals with A+ and B+ blood types.

RBC has encouraged everyone, especially those unaware of their blood type, to get tested. Those with O-negative blood are urged to donate promptly, given its critical demand.