NAIROBI – Kenya’s national blood supply is falling dangerously short as hospitals struggle to meet rising demand caused by cancer cases, accident trauma, and injuries from recent protests.
The National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) confirmed the country currently holds between 200,000 and 250,000 pints of blood. That figure falls well below the World Health Organization’s recommended minimum of 520,000 pints equivalent to 1% of the population.
“The demand for blood has gone up significantly, but our supply is still low, making it hard to meet hospital needs,” said NBTS Deputy Head Nick Kiptanui at a donation drive held at Kenyatta International Convention Centre.
Kiptanui cited a spike in chronic illness, emergency childbirth cases, road crashes, and protest-related injuries as major contributors to the rising need. He said Kenya’s blood banks are not keeping pace, despite medical advances like component separation that make transfusions more targeted and efficient.
The shortfall, he added, is also driven by cultural reluctance to donate and weak public engagement. “We still face resistance despite awareness campaigns. Many people are willing to help but don’t follow through.”
To help close the gap, the government is turning to the country’s cooperative network. Principal Secretary for Cooperatives Patrick Kilemi urged cooperative societies to take the lead in donation drives, especially during Saturday’s Ushirika Day celebrations.
“Cooperatives will play a major role in helping us meet this critical health need. We urge Kenyans to come out in large numbers,” Kilemi said.
CAK Chief Executive Daniel Marube echoed the call, saying the alliance is coordinating with NBTS to roll out blood drives through cooperative members across counties.
Hospitals across Kenya have continued to report delayed surgeries and strained emergency services due to the persistent shortage. During national emergencies and public protests, trauma cases often spike, worsening the pressure on already depleted reserves.
Health officials maintain that meeting the 520,000-pint target is essential for national readiness, but success depends heavily on sustained public participation.
Blood donations remain voluntary in Kenya. Officials are calling for regular participation, noting that one pint can save up to three lives through modern separation techniques.
As the country prepares for more blood collection efforts this weekend, the message from officials remains clear: the health system is in urgent need and every donor counts.
