A Mandela Day blood donation drive in Mbombela exceeded its goal after 106 people donated blood at Valencia Wholesalers, surpassing the target of 100 donors.

The initiative was organised by iSecure Security in partnership with River Creek Marloth Park and Nyati Safari Bush Camp to honour the legacy of former President Nelson Mandela by encouraging community members to save lives through blood donation.

iSecure marketing executive Michelle Oosthuizen said the campaign was inspired by Mandela’s belief that everyone has the power to make a difference. She highlighted that a single blood donation can help save up to three lives.

This year’s event marked the third consecutive annual blood drive, while Oosthuizen celebrated her 50th personal blood donation. The organisers chose to hold the event a day before Mandela Day to maximise public participation.

Among the donors were Luan and Chloe van Dyk, with Luan crediting his wife for motivating him to donate. Oosthuizen thanked the volunteers who helped make the event a success, including Jaco Nagel, Braam Oosthuizen, Stephan Coetzer and Gerhard Oosthuizen.