Story by Abigirl Tembo, Health Editor
THE Red Cross Society has been commended for complementing government efforts in assisting the vulnerable in various emergency situations.
Being the first responders in any emergency situation the world over, the Red Cross and Red Crescent movement continues to assist millions of people in need.
At the Belated World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day Commemorations held in Chinhoyi on Saturday, Vice President General Retired Dr Constantino Chiwenga applauded the humanitarian work being done by the association.
“Locally, the Red Cross is complementing government in reaching thousands of vulnerable people and building stronger communities. This is done through food security and livelihoods, water and sanitation, health and social services, disaster risk management, restoration and maintenance of family as well as first aid and nurse aide training services.
“Through various initiatives, the Red Cross has been able to assist countless families who have been separated from their relatives due to migration,” he said.
The commemorations were also attended by the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs in Mashonaland West, Cde Mary Mliswa as well as Red Cross and Red Crescent executive members from Zimbabwe and within the region who spoke highly of the work being done by the society’s employees and volunteers.
“The Red Cross and Red Crescent has managed to work with us as a government as we strive to leave no one and no place behind which is very commendable as they strive to assist the vulnerable in society,” said Hon Mliswa.
Zimbabwe Red Cross Society President, Mr Edson Mlambo said, “We remain committed to serving humanity and mankind as is our mandate. We are grateful to our volunteers who are truly the cadres of humanity and strive to serve humanity.”
The Zimbabwe Red Cross Society was established through an Act of Parliament in 1981 as an auxiliary to the Government of Zimbabwe’s humanitarian interventions.
Globally, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent movement is the world’s largest humanitarian network present in almost every country.
