Red Cross schools journalists on its mandate and activities
The Sierra Leone Red Cross Society (SLRCS) on Thursday August 1st organized a one day training workshop in Freetown on the mandate and activities of the SLRCS in peace time and situations of disasters and conflict, including regulations and sanctions against the misuse of the Red Cross emblems.
Giving a summary of the historical background of the SLRCS and its activities, Head of Communication, Patrick J. Massaquoi noted that the Red Cross started in Sierra Leone in 1918 following the outbreak of influenza as several British women created a social welfare organization to combat the epidemic. He added that in 1924, that organization started to take care of mothers and children. “By an act of Parliament, the government of Sierra Leone established the SLRCS in 1962 after independence from colonial rule, Mr. Massaquoi proudly stated.
On their activities, Patrick Massaquoi emphasized that together with the Federation of the Red Cross and the Red Crescent Society, the SLRCS, responds to disasters, organises management capacity building for communities and provides relief items for victims. He maintained that they also empower vulnerable youths to utilize potential in their war-torn communities.
Head of Officer at the International Community of the Red Cross (ICRC), Abdul Kai Kai gave an overview of the mandate and activities of the ICRC which is going to fold up by the end of this year being that the country has attained fully fledged peace.
Participants were also informed about the regulations and sanctions against the misuse of the Red Cross emblem and the seven fundamental principles of the Red Cross emblem.
By Ilyasa Baa
Stay with Sierra Express Media, for your trusted place in news!
© 2013, https:. All rights reserved.
