Saint-Louis military units launch blood drive to combat shortage

The 2nd Infantry Battalion of Saint-Louis has launched a blood donation drive to address a critical shortage at the National Blood Transfusion Center (CNTS). On August 7, 2026, the CNTS reported having only 13 blood bags immediately available, with 50 of its 63 total bags already reserved for specific patients.

In an initial drive on Saturday, August 8, the battalion successfully collected 72 blood bags. This mobilization, led by the command of Military Zone No. 2, aims to bolster stocks in local healthcare facilities in the Saint-Louis region.

The blood collection efforts are set to continue on Monday, involving additional military units including the North Naval Base, the 12th Instruction Battalion of Bango, and the 12th Combat Engineering Company of Saint-Louis.