Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo [email protected]
ZIMBABWE Red Cross Society (ZRCS) has challenged young people to treat First Aid as a life-saving responsibility as Bulawayo hosted World First Aid Day competitions on Saturday under the theme “First Aid in Migration, in context.”
Speaking in his welcoming remarks, the ZRCS Provincial chairperson for Matabeleland North Province, Mr Enerst Nyathi, said the day was about building real emergency response skills in communities.
“It is my great honour and privilege to welcome you to this remarkable activity of World First Aid Day competitions being held here in Bulawayo,” he said.
“The activity is enveloped in the theme, First Aid in Migration, in context. This is a very packed theme.”
The chairperson told competitors and guests that the event tested more than technique.
“Ladies and gentlemen, First Aid is more than a skill. It is a gift of life. Today, we will witness young men and women demonstrate courage, quick thinking, and compassion under pressure. Each bandage applied today and each scenario handled represents someone showing how to save life in a real emergency setting.”
He said the focus on migration was deliberate, given the vulnerabilities people face while moving within and across borders, including accidents, injuries and lack of immediate medical help.
Addressing participants directly, Mr Nyathi urged them to use the platform to learn, not just to compete.
“To our competitors, today is your day to shine. Please make sure that you make use of this day and feel welcome and participate fully. This competition is not just about winning trophies. It is about making sure that if you encounter a scenario that needs your assistance, you will be in a position to render the appropriate aid needed, not to use a fake approach.”
He closed by welcoming all participants to Bulawayo and encouraging full engagement.
“Without much, I say I welcome you all to this place. Please feel free to participate. Thank you so much,” he said.
World First Aid Day is commemorated globally every second Saturday of September to raise awareness of how First Aid can save lives in everyday emergencies and in humanitarian crises.
The Bulawayo event brought together Red Cross youth volunteers, schools and community teams who took part in simulated scenarios to test their response, teamwork and decision-making under pressure.
The commemorations started off in Bulawayo CBD, where a march was held from Tredgold to the Red Cross facility at Lady Stanley Avenue.
World First Aid Day is observed annually on the second Saturday of September, falling on September 12, 2026.
