National blood donation drive kicks off in memory of invasion martyrs

Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi inaugurated the annual national blood donation campaign today. The campaign coincides with the 35th anniversary of the brutal Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, serving as a tribute to the sacrifices of Kuwait’s martyrs and a symbol of unity among all sectors of society.

In a press statement, Dr. Al-Awadhi described the campaign as a message of loyalty and national solidarity, honoring those who gave their lives for their motherland.

He emphasized that donating blood is a life-saving act and urged citizens and residents to donate at blood centers across the country, especially at the Central Blood Bank in Jabriya.

The minister revealed that Kuwait currently holds 32,000 units of blood and platelets and aims to increase this supply through continued national campaigns.

Within two hours of launching the campaign, over 100 blood units were collected — an unprecedented early turnout. He paid gratitude to military personnel who supported the campaign from its onset.

The campaign runs until August 2, with a focus on reinforcing the culture of blood donation and increasing strategic reserves.

Colonel Yousef Murshid of the Ministry of Interior affirmed the ministry’s commitment to the campaign, stating that their participation reflects the principle of community partnership. He added that the Ministry’s role extends beyond security to humanitarian efforts, and that blood donation is a powerful message of national and social responsibility.

Dr. Reem Al-Radwan, Director of the Blood Transfusion Services Department, highlighted that the campaign began a decade ago to promote voluntary blood donation as a pillar of life-saving healthcare and a noble humanitarian value.

She praised the participation of military and civil institutions, noting that the first day of the campaign gathered around 300 units of blood.

She added that previous campaigns have achieved record contributions — up to 500 bags in a single day — and that Kuwait collected 95,000 blood bags last year, marking a 4% annual increase due to expanded blood bank branches and more frequent campaigns. The current campaign will continue for three days, further reinforcing public awareness and community solidarity.