BY T A C
Members of Red Cross and Red Cresent humanitarian movement in Meme Division joined their peers all over the world to celebrate the International Red Cross and Red Cresent Day. The pomp and pegeantry celebration that took place in Kumba, chief town of Meme Division on Thursday May 8, 2025, started with a sensitisation march from the Red Cross head office, Buea Road Kumba through the Kumba main market to the CPDM hall where activities of the day culminated
Addressing members, the Divisional President of the Red Cross and Red Cresent humanitarian movement for Meme, Hon. Abel Mukete hinted that the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is celebrated on May 8th every year. He disclosed that it is a day to recognise the humanitarian work of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, honouring the principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality.
The day, he said marks the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, founder of the Red Cross Movement.
He narrated that the day is an opportunity to acknowledge humanitarian efforts worldwide, promote humanitarian value, support Red Cross and Red Crescent activities.
He noted that the theme of the International Red Cross and Red Cresent Day varies annually, focusing on different aspects of humanitarian work, such as disaster response, health services, and community empowerment.
Hon. Abel Mukete disclosed that the international theme for World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day 2025 is “Keeping Humanity Alive”. This theme he went on , highlights the selfless service and dedication of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers who provide relief in crisis situations, promoting human values, peace, kindness, and hope. It’s a call to action to protect human dignity and honour the humanitarian workers who risk their lives to help others.
During the celebration, 75 students of the 2025 graduating batch of Red Cross and Red Cresent humanitarian movement received their end of course certificates with a call to deliver in conformity with the core values of the movement. A clarion call was launched for more members to adhere to the movement.
According to the communication and Public Relations Officer of the Red Cross and Red Cresent movement for Meme, Gama Eric, the
International Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, observed on May 8, commemorates the founding of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in 1863. The day celebrates the humanitarian work of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which provides assistance to those in need, particularly during conflicts and disasters.