Minister of Health Dr Lacram Bodoe says the annual collection of blood is around 20,000 units, falling short of the estimated 40,000 units needed per year.
He was speaking during a blood donation initiative hosted by Sewa TT on Sunday
Dr Bodoe is calling for stronger national coordination and increased public participation to address the country’s ongoing blood shortage, while also urging more support from NGOs and the private sector.
He also proposed a national blood donation launch ahead of World Blood Donation Day on June 12, with the aim of building a sustained programme beyond a single-day event.
Further he emphasized that voluntary blood donation remains central to saving lives, despite cultural and systemic challenges, and are urging more citizens to step forward to support the efforts.