RUSTENBURG HERALD - RUSTENBURG - The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) has expressed their appreciation to all donors for their continued generosity, but as the new year begins, SANBS is experiencing a dip in national blood collections.
While many households return to normal rhythm, thousands of patients across the country begin 2026 with a very different hope - a quiet wish for strength to return, for treatments to work, and for the simple, life-giving gift of blood.
Mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers and children receive treatment in hospitals every day and their recovery, and in some cases survival, depends on the continued availability of donated blood.
Several factors contribute to blood stocks dropping in January, such as donors being away from their regular donation centres during December and limited workplace and campus drives during this time.
However, emergency medical care, childbirth and the treatment of chronic conditions continue year-round, which places sustained pressure on available blood supplies.
SANBS is thus encouraging donors from O and B blood groups to donate, as these groups contribute significantly to the stability of the national blood supply. O negative is the universal blood type used in emergencies and Group B contributes significantly to maintaining balanced stock for specific patient groups.
Thandi Mosupye, Senior Manager: Marketing, Communication and Brand at SANBS says, “If donors, especially those with O and B blood groups visit a donor centre early in the year, we can stabilise the national blood supply quickly and ensure hospitals continue caring for patients without interruption.”
However, SANBS emphasises that all blood groups are welcome and needed, and invites all eligible donors to make a blood donation at their nearest donor centre or mobile drive. A single donation takes only minutes and can save up to three lives.
Who can donate?
• First-time donors must be between 16 and 75 years old
• Donors must weigh at least 50 kg
• Donors should be in good health and lead a low-risk lifestyle
• Donors should have eaten within four hours before donating
Lifestyle Donor Centre (1st Floor, Lifestyle Square) business hours:
Monday - 10:00 to 17:00
Tuesday - 09:00 - 18:00
Wednesday-Friday - 09:00 to 17:00
Saturday - 09:00 to 15:00
Sunday - Closed
