Imagine a single day where an entire continent decides to save lives together. That’s the spirit behind Red Saturday, a powerful moment on 29 November 2025 when Africans from South Africa will roll up their sleeves for one shared purpose: to give hope through blood donation.
Every day, someone’s mother, child, or friend needs blood to survive. Yet the demand is far greater than the supply. Red Saturday brings countries together to change that, reminding us that saving a life doesn’t require superpowers, just 30 minutes and a willing heart.
This year, The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) and Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS), alongside fellow African blood services, are uniting thousands of donors to ensure hospitals never run short. It’s a story about compassion, community, and what becomes possible when Africa stands as one.
The initiative carries a simple yet powerful message:
- Voluntary blood donation saves lives.
- New donors are urgently needed to ensure a safe and sufficient blood supply.
- Blood is needed continuously – not only in emergencies, but every single day.
Five nations – South Africa, Namibia, Ghana, Ethiopia, and Tanzania – have confirmed their participation in this historic event. Together, they will mobilise communities, inspire donors, and showcase Africa’s united commitment to saving lives.
“Red Saturday embodies the spirit of African solidarity,” said Marike Carli, Public Relations Manager, Western Cape Blood Service. “By donating blood, we are not only giving life, but also strengthening the bonds that unite us as a continent.”
“At the South African National Blood Service, we believe that the gift of blood is a shared act of humanity, one that transcends borders and brings our continent closer together,” said Thandi Mosupye, Senior Manager: Marketing, Communication & Brand, at SANBS. “Through Red Saturday, Africa speaks with one voice of compassion, unity, and purpose – proving that together, we can save countless lives.”
Participating services include the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) and the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) from South Africa, the Blood Transfusion Service of Namibia (NAMBTS), the National Blood Service Ghana (NBS Ghana), the Ethiopian National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS Ethiopia), and the National Blood Transfusion Service Tanzania (NBTS Tanzania).
Through coordinated local events, Red Saturday aims to:
- Inspire first-time donors to take action.
- Encourage regular donors to continue their lifesaving contributions.
- Highlight the power of unity in addressing healthcare challenges.
- Amplify the message of hope, compassion, and community.
We hope that new donors across Africa will roll up their sleeves under the banner of Red Saturday, proving that when Africa stands together, lives are changed, hope is renewed, and the heartbeat of the continent grows stronger.
Blood Donation Criteria
If you are between 16 and 75 years old, weigh 50kg or more, and are in good general health, lead a safe sexual lifestyle, you may be eligible to donate blood. The process takes just 30 minutes, and you may donate every 56 days. Donors are encouraged to eat a good meal within 3–4 hours before donating and to increase their fluid intake before and after donation.
For more information or to find your participating blood donation clinic visit wcbs.org.za or send a WhatsApp to 060 549 7244.
Visit www.sanbs.org.za or contact 0800 119 031 to find out where you can donate blood. Follow SANBS on X (@theSANBS), Facebook (@SANBS) Instagram (@thesanbs) and TikTok (@thesanbs).
One day. One continent. One purpose.
