Kenya Embraces Modern Blood Transfusion Technology
NAIROBI, March 30, 2025 — Kenya is set to enhance its blood transfusion services with the introduction of whole blood automation technology. This initiative aims to improve efficiency, quality, and accessibility of safe blood across the country. The announcement was made by Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Mr. Harry Kimtai, during the Africa Technology Day hosted by Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies in Nairobi.
Cross section of participants at the event
Importance of Safe Blood in Healthcare
Addressing delegates from across Africa and representatives from Terumo Corporation Japan, Mr. Kimtai emphasized the critical role of blood in healthcare. He highlighted that timely access to safe blood is essential for surgeries, childbirth, cancer treatment, and managing conditions like Sickle Cell Disease.
“Blood is a life-saving resource. Without it, many medical services would be compromised,” said Mr. Kimtai. “Automation will enhance the efficiency, quality, and sustainability of blood services in Kenya.”
How Blood Automation Will Improve Services
The automation technology provided by Terumo will enable faster and higher-quality processing of donated blood, reducing wastage and extending the shelf life of blood components. Key improvements include:
Red Blood Cells: Shelf life extended from six days to 45 days.
Frozen Platelets: Preservation period increased to two years. These advancements will significantly enhance blood supply management and ensure hospitals have a more reliable stock of essential blood components.
Lessons from Other African Nations
Mr. Kimtai acknowledged the progress made by Zambia and Uganda in adopting modern blood technologies. He urged other African nations to follow suit, stating:
“Africa has a chance to leapfrog into advanced healthcare solutions instead of following traditional evolutionary paths.”
Call for Increased Blood Donations
The Principal Secretary also appealed to the private sector, educational institutions, and the public to support voluntary blood donation. He stressed the need to move away from heavy reliance on high school donors.
“Blood is a gift we all have—and one we can give freely to save lives,” he emphasized.
Kenya’s Commitment to Modernizing Healthcare
The event brought together key stakeholders from across the continent to discuss innovations in blood management. Kenya continues to position itself at the forefront of healthcare modernization in line with the Universal Health Coverage agenda.
For more updates on healthcare advancements, visit Fellownurses.com
Kehinde Oluwatosin is one of the many editors here at Fellow Nurses Africa and fellownurses.com.
He is a registered nurse with a Master of Science degree in healthcare leadership from the University of Hull, United Kingdom. Kehinde is passionate about advancing the nursing profession across Africa. As Co-Founder of Fellow Nurses Africa, he plays a key role in shaping editorial direction, ensuring our content educates, informs, and empowers nurses continent-wide.
With expertise in leadership, patient flow, and healthcare operations, Kehinde brings valuable insights to nursing news, career development, and policy discussions. He is committed to amplifying the voice of African nurses and driving positive change in the profession.
