Kenya's national blood supply is facing a critical shortage due to rising chronic illnesses, accidents, and injuries from protests, health officials report.

• The National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) currently holds between 200,000 and 250,000 pints of blood, significantly below the WHO recommended minimum of 520,000 pints.
• Nick Kiptanui, NBTS Deputy Head, highlighted the increasing demand driven by cancer, maternal emergencies, and trauma.
• The government aims to mobilize blood donations through the cooperative movement and is leveraging the upcoming Ushirika Day celebrations to encourage participation.