Today marks World Red Cross and Red Crescent day, held on 8th May, an annual celebration of the contribution of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. In Somalia, a country ravaged by decades of civil war, it provides an occasion to reflect on the close partnership history the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Somali Red Crescent Society (SRCS) share in providing support to people affected by armed conflict and adverse effects of climate.
With support from the ICRC, the SRCS recently completed rehabilitation of its branch office in Huddur, Bakol region. The inauguration of the renovated building on 4th May 2016 signifies an opportunity for the partners to regain a humanitarian foothold in a region that has long been inaccessible.
The mutually beneficial partnership between the ICRC and SRCS dates back to the seventies and is based on the same fundamental principles which guide our humanitarian approach.
The SRCS enjoys a close proximity to communities everywhere in Somalia, having a vast network of 19 branches, with close to 130 sub-branches across the country, and more than 4,600 volunteers. This is key in understanding the needs of the vulnerable families and ensuring a timely response.
SRCS president, Mr. Yusuf Hassan Mohamed
“Let’s get closer to the community, to win their support and acceptance.” SRCS president, Mr. Yusuf Hassan Mohamed
said during the inauguration ceremony of the SRCS Huddur Branch. Adding, “Huddur branch is one of the examples of tangible projects implemented with support of ICRC.”
The ICRC brings with it international experience and expertise drawing on 150 years of humanitarian action. This includes material and training support to assist the affected people.
This year’s theme of the Red Cross and Red Crescent day: ‘Everywhere for Everyone’, demonstrates our reach as Movement partners in responding to crises in Somalia and the world over, a task beyond the means of any single humanitarian entity.
World Red Cross Red Crescent Day statement by SRCS President
