A volunteer (right) donates blood during a drive organised jointly by the Lions Clubs of Arusha and the
Sikh Youth Arusha, last week.
By The Arusha News Reporter
Arusha’s spirit of service to the community was on full display last Saturday, when residents donated 50 units of blood (roughly equal to 50 pints) to Mount Meru Referral Hospital in a one-day drive organised by the Lions Clubs of Arusha and the Sikh Youth Arusha at the Gurudwara Bazaar.
The Mount Meru Hospital Medical Officer-in-Charge, Dr Alex Ernest, recently told The Arusha News that the hospital’s current monthly requirement was between 450 and 500 pints.
The campaign drew dozens of volunteers, many arriving early in the morning to ensure they had the chance to donate. Hospital officials often warn that blood tends to run dangerously low in the region putting patients — particularly mothers, accident victims and children — at risk. That shortage made Sunday’s community turnout both timely and lifesaving.
The District Governor for the Lions of Tanzania, Lion Manish Chavda, set the tone by becoming the first donor. “We lead not only with words but with action. Today, we give a little so that others may live,” he said.
Organisers and donors praised the strong response, stressing that the event was a testament to Arusha’s unity across cultures and faiths. “When we come together for a noble cause, the impact multiplies. This is Arusha’s true strength,” said one of the Sikh Youth leaders.
For many, the motivation was deeply personal. One young volunteer explained, “I lost a close friend because blood wasn’t available in time. Donating today means someone else’s family will be spared that pain,” he added, requesting anonymity.
The Gurudwara Bazaar, known for its inclusivity, provided an ideal venue for the initiative, reinforcing the theme of shared community responsibility. With 50 units now safely delivered to Mount Meru Hospital, doctors said the contribution could save several lives.
Both the Lions Clubs and Sikh Youth have pledged to continue working together on future projects, ranging from health campaigns to youth empowerment initiatives. They called on more residents to join upcoming drives. “Service doesn’t stop here,” said Lion Chavda. “Together, we will keep saving lives,” he emphasised.
