MTN Ghana, in partnership with CalBank PLC, has collected 7,020 pints of blood in this year’s Save A Life campaign to help restock the nation’s blood banks and support the National Blood Service.

The exercise, held at the forecourt of CalBank, marked the first time MTN has partnered with another institution for a blood donation drive.

MTN Ghana CEO, Steven Blewett, described the initiative as “an extraordinary effort that continues to deliver vital lifesaving assistance to those urgently in need of blood.”

He noted that since 2011, MTN and its partners have collected more than 26,620 units of blood for hospitals and regional blood banks, including the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and the 37 Military Hospital.

CalBank CEO, Carl Selasi Asem, said the bank’s involvement goes beyond corporate social responsibility.

“Blood donation is one of the most immediate and impactful ways that the private sector can help bridge critical gaps in our healthcare delivery,” he stated.

He added that partnering with MTN aligns with the bank’s values and its commitment to protecting and enhancing human lives.

Speaking at the event, MTN’s Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer, Adwoa Wiafe, said the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to making a stronger social impact.

“This is the first time we are partnering with another institution to deliver on this commitment we have made to our community,” she said.

“There are things we do alone, but when we come together, we achieve more. We are here for a purpose beyond us – saving lives through the donation of blood.”

On her part, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Blood Service, Dr Shirley Owusu-Ofori, commended MTN Ghana for its consistent support over the past 15 years.

“This achievement has led to thousands of lives being supported, families being given renewed hope, and critical medical emergencies being managed,” she said.

Dr Owusu-Ofori stressed that voluntary, unpaid blood donations remain the safest and most reliable source for transfusions and provide a sustainable way to maintain an adequate national blood supply.

The 7,020 units were donated by employees, partners and customers of both MTN and CalBank, with each person giving one unit of blood.

Officials say the joint initiative is expected to become a regular collaboration, with both organisations aiming to increase annual targets and further support Ghana’s healthcare system.

They added that the partnership brings together corporate resources, public participation and community engagement in a deliberate effort to save lives and strengthen the country’s health system.