MBTS public relations officer, Natalia Mbale, says during this period, demand for blood is high since road accidents and malaria-induced anaemia are on the rise.

Now that there is reluctance and many blood donors will be on vacations, Mbale discloses that they have stepped up blood collection drive in communities to meet the need, hence appealing the citizens to give blood to help save lives.

"We are appealing to the citizenry to think of giving the precious gift of life to others this season through blood donation," Mbale said.

While applauding the MBTS for educating the populace on the same, health expert, Professor Maurine Chirwa, has told Zodiak Wednesday that it is high time everyone realised the importance of saving a single life through blood donation.

Professor Chirwa said: "It is through that that everyone will see the importance of donating blood."

MBTS relies on students currently on holiday and others in communities to collect blood for the country’s health facilities.