The Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS) is urgently appealing to eligible blood donors to come forward and donate as blood stocks across the province are falling to critically low levels.
The appeal, issued on 24 August 2026, comes as seven of the province’s eight blood groups sit below the WCBS’s target of maintaining at least a five-day blood supply.
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Blood stocks under pressure
According to the WCBS, the province needs a consistent supply of blood to ensure hospitals can meet the needs of patients requiring transfusions.
WCBS Public Relations Manager Marike Carli urged eligible donors, regardless of their blood group, to make time to donate, saying, “Blood is needed every day and cannot be manufactured.”
Carli stressed that the service relies entirely on voluntary donors to ensure blood is available when patients need it.
The latest figures show O-positive and O-negative stocks at approximately two days, while A-positive, B-negative and AB-negative have around three days of supply. B-positive and AB-positive stocks are at roughly four days, according to SABC News.
Every donation can make a difference
WCBS says a blood donation takes approximately 30 minutes and that one donation can help save up to three lives.
Blood is used every day for patients undergoing surgery and other medical treatment, as well as people who require transfusions following serious injuries or because of medical conditions.
The service is therefore encouraging people who are eligible to donate rather than waiting for stocks to reach even more critical levels.
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Who can donate?
According to WCBS, people generally eligible to donate are between 16 and 75 years old, weigh at least 50kg, are in good health on the day of donation and lead a safe sexual lifestyle. Donors are also screened before giving blood to ensure that donation is safe for both the donor and recipient.
Potential donors can find their nearest donation clinic through the WCBS and can contact the organisation for further information.
WCBS lists its blood donation enquiry number as 021 507 6300, while donors can also contact the service via WhatsApp on 060 549 7244.
The current shortage follows previous appeals by WCBS during 2026, highlighting the continuing challenge of maintaining adequate blood stocks in the province.
The service’s annual report has identified limited blood supply and donor fatigue among its key risks, underscoring the importance of maintaining a reliable base of regular donors.
For now, however, the message from the blood service is immediate: eligible Western Cape residents are being asked to roll up their sleeves and donate.
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Featured image: X/@WesternCapeBloodDonation
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