Uganda is set to host the Africa Society for Blood Transfusion (AfSBT) Congress. The revelation was made by Dr Dorothy Kyeyune, the Executive Director of Uganda Blood Bank Services.
Under the theme’ “Safe and Sustainable Blood Transfusion Services in Africa: Adopting Global Innovations and Technology Advancements in Blood Transfusion Services, the congress will be held between March 4 and 7, 2024.
According to Dr Kyeyune, the congress serves as a platform for sharing knowledge, experiences, and best practices while also exploring innovative approaches and technologies to sustain blood transfusion services in Africa.
World Health Organisation guidelines indicate that a country is deemed self-sufficient in safe blood collection when it reaches one percent of its population. With Uganda’s population expected to reach 55 million by 2025, the demand for safe blood is projected to increase accordingly, including for the refugee population residing within the country.
The Uganda Blood Transfusion Service (UBTS), operating under the Ministry of Health, plays a key role in ensuring the availability, accessibility, and appropriate use of safe blood and blood components nationwide. With a commitment to increasing blood supply and promoting the clinical use of safe blood.
“It is the first time the country will host such a distinguished gathering focused on transfusion medicine. This presents an opportunity for our country and the broader health sector. We encourage each of you here today and everyone watching us to donate a unit of blood today to your loved ones,” she said.
The eleventh AfSBT Congress will attract hundreds of world-renowned experts in blood transfusion, policymakers, and key stakeholders, all of whom play crucial roles in advancing transfusion medicine and science.
“The Congress offers unparalleled networking opportunities among professionals in the field, fostering collaboration and collective action towards enhancing blood transfusion practices across the continent.
