Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
SCORES of people today thronged Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Polytechnic for the belated World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day commemorations, held under the theme “United in Humanity”.
The commemorations began with a colourful march from Phakama Business Centre through the Gwanda central business district to the main venue, with participants carrying banners and singing songs promoting humanitarian service, unity and community resilience.
The event brought together humanitarian partners, stakeholders, volunteers, students and community members in honour of the dedication and sacrifice of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers who continue to support vulnerable communities during times of crisis.
Traditionally commemorated on May 8 annually, World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day recognises the efforts of frontline humanitarian workers who respond to disasters, disease outbreaks, poverty and other emergencies across the world.
Speaking on the significance of the day, organisers said the commemorations were meant to celebrate the spirit of volunteerism and humanitarian action while raising awareness on the continued need to support vulnerable communities.
“This special occasion brings together partners, stakeholders, and communities to honour the extraordinary dedication of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and staff who work tirelessly around the world to support vulnerable communities in times of crisis — the frontline heroes who respond swiftly and selflessly to crises,” read part of the information shared during the commemorations.
The day also seeks to acknowledge the contribution of volunteers in areas such as disaster response, health outreach programmes, community education and resilience-building initiatives.
World Red Cross Day was first celebrated in 1948 by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in honour of humanitarian pioneer Henry Dunant, whose experiences during the 1859 Battle of Solferino inspired the formation of the Red Cross Movement.
Dunant advocated for impartial care for wounded soldiers and the establishment of volunteer relief societies, ideas that later became the foundation of one of the world’s largest humanitarian organisations.
Today, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement operates in more than 190 countries with millions of volunteers and staff guided by seven core principles namely humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality.
Organisers said the commemorations were also a reminder of the increasing humanitarian challenges facing communities globally, including climate change, conflict, disease outbreaks and poverty.
“World Red Cross Day is a reminder of the power of humanitarian action. It honours volunteers and workers who put themselves at risk to help others during emergencies,” organisers said.
“It also raises awareness about the ongoing needs of people affected by war, climate change, poverty and disease while encouraging communities to contribute in any way possible to support those in need.”
The commemorations in Gwanda also featured entertainment, awareness activities and engagements aimed at strengthening community participation in humanitarian initiatives.
@DubeMatutu
