With the Easter weekend approaching and O-negative stocks at a critical low, your donation could make a lifesaving difference during the holiday rush.
Cape Town, South Africa (18 March 2026) – If you have an O-negative blood type, the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) needs your help.
The service has seen a decline in all blood groups and currently has only a two-day supply of O-negative blood, while a minimum of five days is required to ensure a sustainable blood supply for all communities in the Western Cape.
For the past two weeks, O-negative blood stock has been under severe pressure, with a concerning decline now being seen across other blood groups. This is especially critical ahead of the upcoming Easter weekend – a period that typically sees an increase in accidents and emergencies, while fewer regular donors are available to give blood.
Now the WCBS is urgently appealing to all blood donors to come forward and donate blood as soon as possible.
“O-negative blood is often used in life-threatening emergencies when there is no time to determine a patient’s blood type. We are calling on all blood donors to donate blood this week to help restore our blood stocks to a healthy level,” says Marike Carli, Public Relations Manager at WCBS.
If you are between 16 and 75, weigh 50kg or more, are in good general health, and lead a safe sexual lifestyle, you should be able to donate. A blood donation takes only 30 minutes, and every unit collected helps maintain the province’s essential blood supply.
“If you have been thinking about becoming a blood donor, now would be a great time to start donating. Whether you are an existing donor or donating for the first time, your donation could save a life when it matters most,” added Carli.
To find your closest blood donation clinic, visit www.wcbs.org.za or contact WCBS via WhatsApp at 060 549 7244.
Sources: Western Cape Blood Service
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