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Precious Manomano-Herald Reporter

THE Government appreciates the important role played by the Red Cross Society in providing sustainable humanitarian assistance through improving the country’s health system and preventing human suffering. 

Under Vision 2030, Zimbabwe is targeting upgrading health provision, leading to an improvement in peoples’ lives. 

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Defence and War Veterans Affairs Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, the chief director in the same ministry, Mr Ignatius Mvere ,said Red cross was doing well in bringing happiness and joy to the lives of vulnerable population and preventing human suffering. 

He was speaking during World Red Cross and Red Crescent day commemorations held in Harare on Tuesday. 

“I want to reaffirm that indeed here in Zimbabwe, Red Cross is working with vulnerable communities, giving help and commitment, Today globally, we honour many women and men who are selfless in their acts of serving people who are faced with harsh realities brought on by conflict, wars, violence, devastating weather conditions and food insecurity. While the gap between humanitarian needs and humanitarian funding is both historic and growing, it is our firm belief that strengthening local and national humanitarian capacity of the Red Cross will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of humanitarian assistance,” he said. 

He said they will engage each other on how best they can forge synergies for the betterment of vulnerable populations across the country. 

At the same occasion, The Zimbabwe Red Cross Society ( ZRCS) National President Mr Edson Mlambo said World red cross day is an important day reflecting on the work of the organisation in response to challenges that disadvantaged communities endure.

He said it is the day when the movement pays tribute to members and volunteers who contribute to humanitarian work. 

“This year we have gathered to celebrate and acknowledge the acts of kindness exhibited by the volunteers and staff during the pandemic and other emergencies. We are gathered to celebrate the dedication, compassion, courage and impact of millions of volunteers who offer help, care and life saving services to people in their communities,” he said. 

ZRCS secretary ceneral Mr Elias Hwenga also said the commemorations are coming at a time of seemingly unprecedented health and humanitarian challenges saying the staff remain lifelines to local communities in need and sometimes at risk to their own safety. 

“Everyday, Red Cross staff and volunteers see first hand how kindness relieves suffering, brings comfort, lights up the darkest moments and restores dignity so we celebrate the acts of kindness, their infectious nature and the difference they make in the lives of others,” he said. Around the world, IRCS and Red Crescent Movement is providing a wide range of services to the most vulnerable in all types of contexts, from responding to the needs and conflict situations, to providing assistance in urban centres and hard to reach areas and advocating on behalf of those in need in policy circles and to Governments.

World Red Cross and Red Crescent day is celebrated on 8 May each year.