Photo: Kwamboka Angira
By Kwamboka Angira
Kisii police officers have gone beyond their call of duty this Easter season by donating blood and urging members of the public to embrace the lifesaving act of voluntary blood donation.
In a show of humanity and community service, the officers led by example during a blood donation exercise held at Nyanchwa Police Station.
The initiative comes at a time when hospitals often experience acute blood shortages, particularly during festive periods such as Easter when emergencies tend to rise.
Speaking during the exercise, County Police Commander Ronald Kirui emphasized the importance of compassion, unity, and collective responsibility in ensuring that no life is lost due to lack of blood.
“We have mobilized our officers across Kisii County to donate blood. The blood collected will be taken to the blood bank at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH), where it will help save lives, especially during emergencies,” said Kirui.
He noted that police officers are frequently at the forefront of emergency response, including rescuing and transporting accident victims and critically ill patients to hospitals where blood is sometimes urgently required.
“The availability of blood in the bank is critical. In many emergencies, having readily available blood can mean the difference between life and death. This initiative is part of our continued support to the hospital, which we assist at least twice a year through such drives,” he added.
A blood bank officer at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, Patrobas Onchiri, welcomed the initiative, noting that it will significantly boost blood reserves and support patient care.
“Blood donation is essential in saving lives. We usually conduct such drives in schools, colleges, universities, and churches, but today we are grateful to collaborate with the police. The blood collected here will benefit patients in need, including members of the public and security officers,” said Onchiri.
He explained that all donated blood undergoes thorough screening and is stored under safe conditions before being issued to patients in need, free of charge.
“Not everyone is able to donate blood, but those who can should come forward. Many patients struggle to find donors during emergencies. Donating blood ensures that it is readily available when needed,” he said.
Onchiri also cautioned against the illegal sale of blood, urging the public to report any such incidents.
“Blood donation should remain a voluntary and free service. The government incurs significant costs in screening and processing blood, so it is important for people to donate freely to support the healthcare system,” he added.