Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
THE 2026 World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day commemorations held in Gwanda yesterday turned the spotlight on the often-unsung volunteers who risk their lives and dedicate their time to helping vulnerable communities during disasters, disease outbreaks and humanitarian crises.
Held under the theme, “United in Humanity”, the commemorations at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo Polytechnic were attended by Government officials, development partners, community leaders, volunteers and corporate stakeholders to celebrate the work of millions of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers worldwide.
The annual commemorations, marked every May 8, honour the humanitarian movement’s contribution to saving lives and building resilient communities through disaster response, health outreach, first aid training and social support programmes.
Speakers at the event paid tribute to volunteers, describing them as the backbone of the humanitarian movement and calling for stronger partnerships to tackle growing humanitarian challenges.
Zimbabwe Red Cross Society national president Mr David Chaliyanika said volunteerism remained central to humanitarian work and urged more people to join the movement.
“As a volunteer organisation, we thrive on volunteer services and without it we would be paralysed, so a big thank you to these wonderful men and women. We also urge you who are gathered here today to consider becoming a volunteer and a member too and together we can achieve many feats,” he said.
“In the spirit of this year’s theme, ‘United in Humanity’, let us reaffirm our collective resolve to stand together for compassion, resilience and service.”
Mr Chaliyanika also commended stakeholders supporting humanitarian work.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to the esteemed stakeholders who have made it possible to join us today, including representatives from Government ministries, our valued partners in development, corporate sponsors, community leaders and international allies. Your presence here is a powerful affirmation of our shared commitment to humanity,” he said.
Zimbabwe Red Cross Society secretary-general Mr Elias Hwenga said humanitarian work required collective responsibility, particularly as communities continue to face droughts, floods, disease outbreaks and other emergencies.
He urged more stakeholders to support humanitarian initiatives aimed at alleviating suffering in communities.
“When united, we can prevent and alleviate human suffering. Humanitarian work is a shared responsibility and together we can build stronger and more resilient communities,” said Mr Hwenga.
Matabeleland South provincial mining director Mr Khumbulani Mlangeni said the work of the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society was critical across various sectors, including mining, where safety and emergency preparedness are essential.
“This day gives us an opportunity to recognise and honour the remarkable volunteers and staff of the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society, men and women who continue to dedicate their time, energy and skills to saving lives and supporting communities in times of need,” he said.
“Please allow me to applaud these unsung heroes whose commitment continues to make a real difference in the lives of many.”
Mr Mlangeni said all sectors have a duty to protect human life and dignity.
“The theme ‘United in Humanity’ is a reminder that regardless of sectors, institutions or responsibilities, we are united by one common purpose — the protection of human life and dignity,” he said.
“Whether in humanitarian response, public service or the mining industry, our shared responsibility is to put people first. Let us therefore continue to strengthen partnerships between Government, humanitarian organisations, the private sector and communities so that together we build a safer, healthier and more resilient society.”
The Zimbabwe Red Cross Society has played a key role in responding to emergencies across the country, including drought relief programmes, cholera response initiatives, first aid training, disaster preparedness and community resilience projects.
Globally, World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day commemorates the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross and the first recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize.
The commemorations also highlighted the growing importance of volunteer-driven humanitarian action at a time when climate-related disasters, public health emergencies and economic hardships continue to affect communities worldwide.
@DubeMatutu
