The Gambia Red Cross Society, in collaboration with the Blood Bank of the Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital, last Friday organised a one-day sensitisation for journalists on blood donation and launching of the "Club 25" at a ceremony held at the RVTH in Banjul.

Speaking at the occasion, Dr Tamsir Mbowe, chief medical director, RVTH, said the vision of the The Gambia health sector revolves around Vision 2020 and the attainment of quality health care for all Gambians. According to him, this can only be achieved if blood is available for the effective management of patients. "The programme you are to embark on will play an important role in the attainment of our health goals.  Blood is an important component of the human system without which the human system cannot function," he said.

Momodou Jahateh, chairman of GRCS Banjul branch - who spoke on behalf of the president of the Gambia Red Cross Society, said part of the objectives of the Red Cross is to facilitate the improvement of health, the prevention of diseases and the mitigation of suffering in time conflicts. He added that in pursuing those objectives, the Red Cross society will not make any adverse distinction founded on sex, race, nationality, religion, political opinions or any similar criteria, but will act in accordance with the spirit and principles of the Geneva Convention.

H then made it clear that the Club 25 is a youthful concept, promoting the value of saving lives by giving blood.  "Through Club 25, young people are encouraged to visit blood centres and give blood regularly," he noted.  Ebou G Sarr, head of the Blood Bank at the RVTH, thanked the Gambia Red Cross Society for the initiative. He then appealed to the general public to donate blood as anyone can be a victim.