The Gambia Armed Force has announced launching a blood donation drive as part activities marking World Blood Donor Day.
The army said donations will be held at Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital in Banjul – Defence Headquarters, Joint Services Headquarters and Gambia Navy– Kanifing General Hospital – Guards Battalion and GAF Training School Brikama Major Health Center – 1 Infantry Battalion – Yundum Barrack –Bwiam General Hospital – 4 Infantry Battalion– Kanilai – Farafenni General Hospital – 2 Infantry Battalion–Farafenni– Essau Health Centre – Njongon Military Camp–Bansang General Hospital – Kudang and LaminKoto Military Barracks– Basse Major Health Centre – 3 Infantry Battalion – and Basse.
In a statement signed by Major Lamin K Sanyang , said: “The Gambia Armed Forces is pleased to inform the general public that the Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Yakuba Drammeh has launched a Blood Donation Drive under the theme “Safe blood saves lives” with the slogan “Give blood and make the world a healthier place”.
“This patriotic and humanitarian gesture is aimed at complimenting the efforts of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in ensuring adequate supply of blood to Gambians particularly during the COVID – 19 pandemic. Consequently, officers, soldiers and ratings of the Gambia Armed Forces in all military installations from Banjul to Basse would voluntarily donate blood to ensure individuals and communities have access to safe and quality-assured blood and blood products in both normal and emergency situations.
“The historic and symbolic event, which shall be graced by the Minister of Defence, Honourable Sheikh Omar Faye is scheduled to take place on Friday 12 June 2020 at 0900 hours at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital in Banjul as well as all government major hospitals and health facilities.
Personnel from the various GAF military installations will assemble and donate blood at the following medical facilities as shown against their names:
June 14 is set aside by World Health Organisation yearly to mark World Blood Donor Day.