As a period of religious observance approaches for millions around the world, including Easter, and in some years Ramadan and Passover, health authorities in South Africa are warning of a familiar but serious challenge: a drop in blood donations at the very moment when demand in hospitals often rises.

The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) is now appealing to the public to help prevent shortages, setting a target to collect 6 000 units of blood in a single day this Saturday. The campaign highlights the critical role of blood donation in saving lives, from emergency care and trauma cases to surgeries, childbirth complications and long‑term medical treatments.

SANBS is urging both regular donors and first‑time donors to step forward during this important holiday period to ensure a stable and sufficient blood supply for patients across the country.

Our Reporter, Lebogang Mabange, has more.