After joining other blood services throughout Africa for a groundbreaking blood donation event called “Red Saturday,” the National Blood Service of Ghana achieved a total of 1,225 units of blood nationwide, surpassing its target of 1,000 units.

The event, which took place on Saturday, November 29, 2025, aimed to engage thousands of donors from fifteen countries, collecting lifesaving blood donations to help hospitals and patients in need. It was also part of the twenty-fifth National Blood Donor Day, which has the theme “One Day. One Continent. One Purpose”.

“Red Saturday” was more than just a blood drive; it was a celebration of the life-saving potential of voluntary blood donation. A symbol of African unity and solidarity, and a group effort to address blood shortages throughout the continent.

The initiative’s message was straightforward but impactful: Giving blood voluntarily saves lives. New donors are urgently needed to ensure a safe and sufficient blood supply, as blood is required daily, not just during emergencies.

Ghana’s blood drives were held in Senior High Schools, Training Colleges, and Churches across nine regions of the country: Ashanti, Bono, Central, Greater Accra, Northern, Volta, Western, Upper East, and Upper West, with NBS aiming to mobilize 1,000 units of blood.

Through well-planned local events, Red Saturday has raised awareness of the importance of unity in tackling healthcare issues, inspired first-time donors to take action, and strengthened the message of hope, compassion, and community.

New donors across Ghana and Africa have rolled up their sleeves under the banner of Red Saturday, proving that when Africa stands together, lives are changed, hope is renewed, and the heartbeat of the continent grows stronger.

Some of the countries that participated in the event included South Africa, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Namibia, Nigeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Togo, Kenya, Senegal, Cape Verde, Tunisia, and Chad.