The Tonga Red Cross Society (TRCS) reported 13 successful blood donations last weekend, out of almost 30 people who turned up. The organisation expressed concern this year’s turnout falls short, compared with more than 30 donors during the same period last year.
Several residents were unable to donate due to being over the age limit or having unsuitable blood health. Tonga Red Cross officer Silongo Fakasi’i’eiki encouraged the public to continue coming forward. “We help to ensure the availability of emergency blood supplies in Tongatapu through the recruitment of voluntary blood donors in communities and tertiary schools,” TRCS stated.
Tonga relies heavily on voluntary donations to maintain a stable blood supply. Usually, only family-requested or ad hoc donations currently support the system . Last year, Tonga recorded over 30 donations during this same weekend, highlighting a drop this time.
The Red Cross warned that fewer regular donors and health-based deferrals could strain its emergency reserves. The national blood bank can hold only 50 donor bags—barely enough for a month.
Fakasi’i’eiki reiterated the call for all eligible residents and visitors to donate and help sustain lifesaving stocks.