Copyright rnanews

Police officers serving at the Rwanda National Police (RNP) General Headquarters participated in a voluntary blood donation exercise to support national health efforts. The blood donation drive was conducted in partnership with the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), as part of ongoing cooperation between the two institutions to strengthen public health and promote community well-being. Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Boniface Rutikanga, the RNP spokesperson, said the initiative reflects the Police’s commitment to humanitarian values and its broader responsibility to protect life. “Blood donation is an act of humanity, a way to save lives, and it reflects the Police officers’ dedication to serve the people they protect and to promote their well-being,” ACP Rutikanga said. He added that the RNP organizes these humanitarian activities regularly, emphasizing the force’s values of service, compassion, and partnership with the community. “These activities demonstrate our continued collaboration with RBC and our shared mission to close the gap in the national blood supply,” he noted. Adeline Niyondamya from the National Centre for Blood Transfusion, commended the Police officers for their consistent support and participation. “We appreciate the Police officers’ commitment to this cause,” she said. “It is easier to reach them because they are organized within institutions. For the general public, we sometimes need to conduct awareness campaigns first, but overall, the participation rate across the country is encouraging.” She further explained that regular participation from institutions like the RNP has helped ensure a steady blood supply to hospitals nationwide, reducing shortages and saving more lives. “Currently, no patient in Rwanda pays for receiving blood. Anyone in need of transfusion is given blood free of charge,” she said. “While patients may pay for other hospital services, blood itself is provided at no cost.” She called on the public to continue developing a spirit of compassion through regular blood donation to save lives. (End)