By Martha Ekidor.
TURKANA_ While many marked Valentine’s Day with romantic gestures, Manchester United fans in Turkana County chose a different path, one of selflessness and humanity.
In a unique show of love, the football enthusiasts came together to donate blood, recognizing the dire need for blood donations in Kenya, where thousands of lives are lost due to shortages in hospitals.
The blood donation drive, held at Tilak Hall in Lodwar town, was spearheaded by Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai.
The event aimed to support patients at Lodwar Referral Hospital, which, like many other medical facilities in the country, frequently struggles with inadequate blood supplies.
“This Valentine’s Day, we wanted to make a difference. We have been told that our Turkana hospital is faced with a blood shortage, so we decided to take part and save lives. Many people associate the day with flowers and chocolates, but we saw it as an opportunity to save lives,” said Timothy Achodang’, Manchester United Chairperson, Turkana County.
“You know blood is red, Manu is red, and blood is red. Some lack blood and are asked to buy, so we decided to be part of this exercise today on Valentine’s Day,” added one of the organizers, a dedicated Manchester United fan.
According to the Kenya National Blood Transfusion Service (KNBTS), the country requires at least 500,000 pints of blood annually to meet demand.
However, it collects only about 250,000 pints, leaving a significant deficit that endangers lives, particularly those of accident victims, expectant mothers, and patients undergoing surgeries.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that Kenya’s blood donation rate remains critically low, with only 6.6 donations per 1,000 people, compared to the recommended 10 per 1,000.
This shortfall has led to preventable deaths, with reports indicating that approximately 120,000 people die annually due to inadequate blood supply.
The event attracted a large turnout, with local leaders, healthcare workers, and football fans rolling up their sleeves to contribute. “It is heartwarming to see such a huge number of people responding to the call to donate blood. Every pint donated today is a lifeline for someone in need,” said Governor Lomorukai.
Medical professionals at the event emphasized the importance of regular blood donation, encouraging the community to make it a habit rather than a one-time gesture. “Donating blood is a simple yet powerful way to make a difference. If more people embraced this culture, we could significantly reduce deaths caused by shortages,” said a nurse overseeing the collection.
As the exercise continued throughout the day, it was clear that the initiative had not only saved lives but also inspired a new perspective on celebrating love.
For the Manchester United fans who participated, Valentine’s Day was not just about passion for football but also about extending kindness beyond the pitch.
With Kenya’s persistent blood shortage crisis, the efforts of these football enthusiasts serve as a crucial reminder that love can be expressed in many ways sometimes, through the simple act of giving the gift of life.