Blood transfusion services get closer as Garissa centre opens

ERICK KYALO-KNA

Residents of the North Eastern region and parts of Eastern Kenya seeking blood transfusion services have reason to celebrate following the official opening of the Garissa Regional Blood Transfusion Centre, which will bring services closer to the communities.

Previously, blood collected in the region had to be transported to Nairobi for testing and screening, a process that posed major challenges during emergencies and often delayed patient care.

Speaking during the official commissioning of the facility, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale said that the center was a game changer for the local residents as it would significantly reduce turnaround times, strengthen emergency response, improve patient outcomes and enhance healthcare delivery across the region.

Duale at the same time said that the government was committed to ensuring that no life would be lost due to avoidable circumstances including lack of access to blood for transfusion.

“Today we have commissioned the state of the art Garissa Regional Blood Transfusion Centre, which will cover five counties including Wajir, Mandera, Garissa, Isiolo, Lamu, Kitui and Tana River.

"As we commemorate the World Blood Donor Day, I want to thank all those who donated blood to save lives,” Duale said.

“Every unit of blood donated ensures that we save lives. Blood is the most precious resource in our healthcare. It remains one of the most essential and irreplaceable health products in our healthcare system,” he added.

With a capacity to store over 600 units of blood, the facility is set to strengthen regional preparedness and ensure a more reliable supply for health facilities and emergency situations.

Garissa County Governor Nathif Jama on his part noted that the new facility would improve blood collection, testing, storage and distribution hence ensuring timely access to safe blood across the region.