Muscat: Oman’s observance of World Blood Donor Day comes amid encouraging figures from the Ministry of Health’s Central Blood Bank in Bousher. Mohsen bin Saif Al-Sharyani, Head of the Donor Affairs Section, announced a 4 percent rise in collected blood units last year, totaling 83,694. Omanis made up 90 percent of these donors, reflecting a strong national spirit of giving.
Voluntary donations comprised 98 percent of total donations, with 46 percent being first-time donors—an indication of a growing and engaged donor community.
Al-Sharyani noted that 40 percent of donations were collected during 381 mobile donation campaigns, while 60 percent came directly to the Central Blood Bank. He highlighted that blood types like O-negative remain critically important in emergencies due to their universal compatibility.
Read More
- Six killed, 18 injured in horrific multi-vehicle crash in Oman’s Samail
- Oman’s new cybersecurity strategy targets safer, more resilient digital economy
- Oman accident: Truck collision causes injuries, traffic congestion on Sultan Thuwaini bin Said Road
- Oman extends condolences to Pakistan after Islamabad hospital fire
- GCC history forum participants thank His Majesty Sultan Haitham for Oman’s warm hospitality
He pointed out that blood donation is a fundamental pillar of support for the health sector in the Sultanate of Oman, particularly with regard to organ transplants carried out recently. He emphasized that these operations rely heavily on the availability of blood components, particularly platelets, due to their vital role in maintaining the stability of patients’ health after transplantation.
All collected blood in Oman undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it is safe and disease-free. The Ministry of Health maintains a nationwide network of branch blood banks and regularly organizes donation drives in collaboration with government entities, private institutions, colleges, and volunteer groups.
Adel bin Ali Al-Maashari, Campaigns Supervisor of the Oman Blood Donor Team, said that outreach campaigns are vital for reaching new donors and educating the public. He cited a recent campaign in Saham which drew more than 800 donors, highlighting growing awareness and enthusiasm across the country.
The Ministry of Health continues its push toward self-sufficiency in blood supply through sustainable policies, repeat donor programs, and expanded public outreach. It has urged all citizens and residents to support this noble cause, emphasizing that blood donation not only saves lives but also strengthens community bonds and offers physical and emotional benefits to the donor.
