Kamogelo Seekoei

Kamogelo Seekoei

Today marks a milestone for Soweto residents as they receive their first permanent blood donation clinic. The clinic will be opened by Gauteng health MEC Brian Hlongwa at Maponya Mall in Soweto this morning.

The clinic is aimed at encouraging more people to donate blood. The South African National Blood Service (SANBS) said though there were mobile clinics in Soweto in the past, a fixed one was needed because mobile clinics did not reach everyone.

SANBS spokesman Justice Mohale said the opening of the clinic was an indication that the SANBS was moving forward.

He said it was the organisation's plan to extend their service to areas which previously did not have blood donation clinics.

"There is no more discrimination. We are prepared to use everyone's blood regardless of their colour, creed or sexual preference. As long as the blood is safe, it will be taken."

Mohale encouraged people to go and donate blood because they would be saving lives. He also said people should know their blood group.