The 2025 edition of the MTN Save a Life Blood Donation Exercise, which took place on Friday, February 14, 2025, across the country, marking 14 years of providing a lifeline for countless individuals and families, ended successfully in Accra.
Since its inception in 2011, the Save a Life initiative has responded to the National Blood Services’ call to action, helping to restock the blood bank and provide a lifeline for those in need. Today, the initiative celebrates not only the lives saved but also the spirit of generosity and compassion that defines Ghanaians.
According to the MTN Ghana Foundation, their interest in the event is driven by the need for a healthy society to enjoy their services. The Foundation emphasized the importance of meaningful connections with the communities they engage with.
According to statistics, voluntary blood donation has seen progress in recent years, but challenges persist in meeting transfusion needs. In 2022, Ghana collected approximately 180,000 units of blood, with only 45,443 units coming from voluntary donors, accounting for 25%. This figure falls short of the World Health Organization’s recommended minimum of 10 units per 1,000 of the population.
To address this gap, the MTN Ghana Save a Life Blood Donation Exercise has set up 42 bleeding centers in all 16 regions across the country. The goal is to collect over 6,000 units of blood from all locations.
According to the Head of Corporate Communications, MTN, Georgina Asare Fiagbenu, urged donors to support the initiative by donating massively. She asserted that blood donation is vital, and people need blood to replenish lost ones.
“There are people who are on dialysis, affected by cancer, babies, and pregnant women who may need blood. So, it is prudent for us to donate and give life to another again. As part of celebrating Valentine’s Day, we have decided to do this, and I am sure the target of giving blood to people in need will be achieved.”
The Chief Executive of the National Blood Service, Dr. Shirley Owusu-Ofori, commended the MTN Ghana Foundation for the life-changing initiative, adding that the initiative provided an opportunity for society to give back, especially those who had benefited from blood transfusions.
She indicated that the project has fostered a strong partnership between the MTN Ghana Foundation, the National Blood Service, the 37 Military Hospital, and the Regional Blood Centers across the country, mobilizing voluntary, unpaid blood donations that have saved countless lives.
“What began as a small initiative by MTN staff has grown into a national event on the NBS calendar and flagship project of the MTN Ghana Foundation. The project has seen significant growth, from 6,440 in 2023 to 5,901 in 2024. This is a testament to the impact of this collaboration.”
Representing the CCSO, Bernard Kofi Asare expressed deepest gratitude to all participants, including medical professionals, volunteers, and blood donors, for their selfless contributions. Mr. Asare expressed sincerest appreciation to blood donors, acknowledging their willingness to give as a ripple effect of kindness that has spread throughout communities.
“As the initiative moves forward, it is essential to embody the values of kindness and generosity, striving to create a world where everyone has access to life-saving resources.”
The MTN Ghana Save a Life Blood Donation Exercise, which is held annually on February 14, is a testament to the power of collective action and generosity.
