In a province of 7.6 million people, only 69,608 are active blood donors. This August, the Western Cape Blood Service is calling on more people to help grow its donor base to at least 1% of the population.
Western Cape, South Africa (05 August 2026) – Less than 1% of people in the Western Cape donate blood, yet thousands of patients depend on blood transfusions every day.
Every day, patients across the Western Cape rely on blood donations for emergency treatment, surgery, childbirth complications, cancer treatment and chronic illnesses. In a province of 7.6 million people, only 69,608 are active blood donors. That means that less than 1% of the province’s population currently donates blood.
To maintain a sustainable blood supply, Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) needs to grow its donor base to at least 1% of the population. This August, the service is challenging the public to Be the One and join the remarkable community of blood donors helping to save lives every day.
The campaign is both a celebration and a challenge. It celebrates the thousands of dedicated blood donors who continue to save lives through their regular donations while encouraging those who have never donated before to become one of them.
Every regular blood donor was once a first-time donor. WCBS is inviting more people to take that first step, return to donate again, or continue making a lifesaving difference.
“We appreciate every blood donor who steps up and saves up to three lives with a single donation,” said Marike Carli, Public Relations Manager for WCBS.
“Every blood donation begins with one decision. Right now, less than 1% of people in the Western Cape choose to donate blood, yet those donors make lifesaving treatment possible for thousands of patients every year. We often assume someone else will do it, but every donation counts. This August, we’re asking more people to ‘Be the One’ who steps forward, ‘Be the One’ who donates, and ‘Be the One’ who makes a difference.”
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. Donors are advised to eat something before visiting a clinic and to increase their fluid intake before, during, and after donation. Blood donation only takes 30 minutes of your time, and you can donate blood every 56 days.
For more information or to find your closest blood donation clinic, visit www.wcbs.org.za or send a WhatsApp to 060 549 7244.
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Sources: Western Cape Blood Service
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