JUBA - Across South Sudan, communities face a wide variety of threats, whether it’s a traumatic accident, injuries due to conflict, chronic illnesses and longer-term medical conditions.
Blood donations by volunteers are critical in responding to these challenges.
“Giving blood is like giving life to those who are sick,” explained Mark Sabah James from the National Blood Bank.
Recognizing the desperate need for blood supplies in the conflict-affected country, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan teamed up with the South Sudan Red Cross to organize a donation campaign within its bases.
“All the blood collected today will be taken to our laboratory where it will undergo careful screening and then be safely stored until it is needed,” said Mark Sabah James.
UNMISS is also helping raise awareness by broadcasting news and interviews on the mission’s Radio Miraya.
“We are collaborating with the Government to ensure that it’s not only peacekeepers who are donating blood,” said UNMISS Laboratory Officer, Joan Segui Barber.
“We want the whole country to understand the importance of this issue and how easy it is to participate.”
While many are keen to contribute, others may be less enthusiastic because of a lack of knowledge about the process.
“There are so many myths about blood donations. People hear that you may become weak or sick. This is wrong. It is a very safe process.”
Showing solidarity, UNMISS peacekeepers—military, police, and civilian — all rolled up their sleeves to contribute to this important cause.
“Blood donation contributes to peace because, in the first place, we need to help people be healthy first in the environment,” says donor Swanerrie Sangshell Tacio, an UNPOL Police Advisor.
“A healthy environment will create a peaceful environment.”
Going above and beyond their daily duties, these peacekeepers are giving from the heart, knowing that every drop helps to protect and prolong the lives of those they serve.
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By Carole Abou Farah
