Access Bank launches blood donation campaign

Access Bank Mozambique held its annual blood donation campaign between 17 and 20 June under the motto 'Donate Blood, Share Life'. The initiative involved employees, customers and the communities of Maputo, Beira, Nampula, Nacala, Chimoio, Tete and Pemba. A total of 422 bags of blood were collected, which could benefit more than 1,260 people in emergency situations. The action reinforces the Bank's commitment to the health and well-being of the communities in which it operates.

Since 2020, Access Bank, in partnership with the National Blood Service, has been promoting the 'Donate Blood, Share Life' campaign, thus responding to the shortage of stocks in several hospitals in the country.

For the Acting CEO of Access Bank Mozambique, Chiwetalu Obikwelu, each bag of blood donated represents renewed hope for critically ill patients. “At a time when so many hospitals are facing a severe blood shortage, our mission must go beyond financial operations; it must be a true catalyst for life,” he said. “We are deeply grateful to all employees, customers and partners who responded to our appeal with a remarkable spirit of solidarity and commitment to the community,” he added.

Data from the National Health System demonstrate the importance of this initiative. Even during periods of low demand, Maputo Central Hospital, the country's largest health unit, requires up to 120 units of blood per day. The shortage is felt in this and other health units, both at district level and in referral hospitals.

The Director of the National Blood Service, Sara Salimo, highlighted the Access Bank initiative. “Thanks to the 422 donors, we have significantly reinforced our blood reserves in almost the entire country, approaching the minimum capacity required to handle emergencies and surgeries.”

In addition to the collection, the campaign included awareness-raising activities on the importance of regular blood donation and civic volunteering. Access Bank

remains committed to organizing periodic campaigns and expanding this partnership, contributing to the sustainability of blood banks while saving lives across the country.