Online Reporter
Theseus Shambare
THE Zimbabwe Red Cross Society has been described as the country’s “first line of defence” in times of disaster, as Government called for stronger partnerships and proactive approaches to address escalating humanitarian challenges.
Speaking at the official launch of the ZRCS Strategic Plan (2026–2030) in Harare yesterday, Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, represented by acting Secretary Mr Ignatius Mvere, said the organisation plays a critical role in safeguarding communities against crises.
“The Zimbabwe Red Cross Society has demonstrated that when communities are empowered with knowledge, resources and support, they become the first line of defence against disasters and crises,” she said.
Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri also commended the organisation’s long-standing humanitarian work, describing it as a “beacon of hope” for vulnerable communities through its emergency response, resilience-building initiatives and promotion of human dignity.
The minister warned that the country continues to face a complex and evolving humanitarian landscape, driven largely by climate-induced disasters such as droughts, floods and cyclones, which are threatening livelihoods and food security.
She also flagged public health threats, including disease outbreaks, as a growing concern, underscoring the need to strengthen preparedness and community-based health systems.
“The role of humanitarian organisations such as the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society becomes very pertinent in this context,” Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri said.
The newly launched five-year strategic plan outlines a shift towards proactive and community-centred humanitarian action, anchored on four key pillars: strengthening disaster preparedness and response, promoting safe and dignified lives, mobilising resources through strategic partnerships and enhancing human capital, governance and systems.
ZRCS secretary-general Mr Elias Hwenga said the strategy represents a deliberate move from reactive to anticipatory approaches.
“This Strategic Plan is about staying ahead of crises, not just responding to them. We are strengthening our ability to anticipate risks, act early, and support communities to recover faster and build resilience,” he said.
Mr Hwenga said improving the quality of life for vulnerable communities remains central to the organisation’s mission.
“At the heart of this strategy is our commitment to ensuring that communities live safe, healthy and dignified lives, with real opportunities to thrive,” he said.
Mr Hwenga added that the importance of partnerships in scaling up humanitarian interventions, noting that no single institution can effectively respond to disasters alone.
“We recognise that we cannot do this alone. Strategic partnerships will be key in mobilising the resources and expertise needed to scale up our humanitarian response,” said Mr Hwenga.
ZRCS president Mr David Chaliyanika said the launch marked a significant milestone that will guide the organisation’s work over the next five years.
“This strategic plan builds on the strong foundations laid by the previous strategy. The lessons learned, progress achieved and partnerships built over the years have shaped the direction we now take,” he said.
Mr Chaliyanika said the strategy is designed to respond to emerging challenges, including climate change, food insecurity, migration and complex emergencies.
The plan is aligned with national development priorities, including Vision 2030 and the global agenda of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, positioning ZRCS as a key partner in Zimbabwe’s humanitarian and development efforts.
Government has since called on stakeholders to support the implementation of the strategy, emphasising that its success will depend on collective effort and sustained commitment.
