Busia:Arsenal fans in Kenya are urging both national and county governments to establish satellite blood screening and storage centres across the country. This initiative aims to reduce delays in accessing blood, which is crucial for saving lives.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dennis Njau, chairperson of Arsenal, Kenya, highlighted the challenges faced due to the lack of adequate screening and storage facilities. Speaking after a blood donation drive and the donation of medical equipment and drugs at Alupe Sub-County Hospital in Busia County, Njau emphasized the need for these facilities to be operational at the county level to ensure timely availability of blood for transfusions.
Njau noted that their initiative stems from persistent blood shortages in health facilities, which often result in emergencies. He encouraged the public to make blood donation a regular practice rather than waiting for organized drives. Evans Wangata, patron of the Arsenal Kenya Busia branch, added that the fans are committed to community support through donations and other initiatives.
Dr. Loyce Ohenga, medical superintendent at Alupe Sub-County Hospital, acknowledged the importance of the blood donation, stating it would help address the county’s shortage, which requires about 200 units of blood weekly. The hospital’s location along the Kenya-Uganda border increases the demand for blood as it also serves patients from Uganda.
Additionally, the fans appealed to county governments to invest in sports infrastructure to nurture grassroots talent. Catherine Irandi, an Arsenal fan from the Kisii branch, pointed out the inadequate support for sports and the shortage of facilities, which limit opportunities for young people.
The fans are also promoting tourism by encouraging members from other countries to visit local attractions in Busia. John Mondo of the Arsenal Kenya Busia branch highlighted their efforts to promote sites like Budalang’i and Kakapel in Teso North.
The event in Busia County marked the launch of the Arsenal Kenya Busia branch, the 22nd in the country, where fans also participated in tree planting to support environmental conservation efforts.
