Dalene Kooper
Namibia has retained its accreditation with the African Society of Blood Transfusion (AfSBT), cementing its position as one of Africa’s top-performing countries in blood transfusion safety.
This was revealed by AfSBT managing director Mohammed Farouk during the 12th International Congress of the African Society of Blood Transfusion, currently underway in Windhoek.
The four-day congress, hosted by the Namibia Blood Transfusion Service (NamBTS) at the Mercure Hotel, concludes tomorrow.
“We always host the congress in countries with state-of-the-art blood services. Namibia’s blood service is operating at a level equivalent to leading systems anywhere in the world,” said Farouk.
Namibia has been a member of AfSBT since 2012.
He explained that the congress aims to improve blood safety across Africa by enabling healthcare professionals to share knowledge, enhance practices and learn from one another.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister of Health and Social Services Dr Esperance Luvindao emphasised the critical importance of safe blood donation and transfusion, as well as the often unseen work of experts in the sector.
“The Ministry of Health and Social Services, particularly this administration, is intentional about ensuring that the work being done by NamBTS and its stakeholders is amplified so that we can support this critical component of healthcare,” she said.
Luvindao highlighted the various roles within the blood transfusion ecosystem and called for stronger collaboration between individuals, systems and government.
She noted that discussions and research presented at the congress will play a key role in informing policy decisions.
“We remain guided by a shared vision — where every patient in Africa has timely access to safe blood, and where innovation, policies and legislation evolve beyond outdated frameworks to serve our people effectively,” she added.
Held under the theme “Innovative connections enhancing the blood transfusion ecosystem”, the congress has brought together global experts in blood transfusion and healthcare to deliberate on the latest advancements, innovations and best practices for ensuring a safe and sustainable blood supply.
Farouk said the biennial event serves as a platform to bring international expertise closer to the continent.
“International congresses held in Europe or America are often costly for African professionals. AfSBT brings that knowledge to Africa, enabling wider participation and collaboration,” he said. The congress also features exhibitions showcasing advanced blood transfusion technologies, with participation from international organisations and countries active in the field.
NamBTS spokesperson Frieda Vatileni-Asino described the gathering as a critical platform for progress.
“It is not just a congress — it is a catalyst for transforming blood transfusion systems across Africa,” she said.
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