By Ncaba Ntshakala
PRIME Minister Russell Dlamini has applauded the role played by the Red Cross in Eswatini over the years.
He made the remarks during the gathering for the official opening of the Southern Africa Partnership of Red Cross Societies (SAPRCS) meeting hosted by the Baphalali Red Cross Society at the Hilton Garden Hotel in Mbabane on Thursday.
The two-day meeting brought together ten Red Cross National Societies in Southern Africa to strengthen cooperation and standardize Red Cross operations while collectively tackling issues of common interest.
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Present during the meeting was the International Federation Red Cross (IRFC) President Kate Forbes, Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla and other Cabinet Ministers.
The Prime Minister also applauded the Red Cross’s immense collaboration and partnership with the government of Eswatini for many years and hailed the organization for the introduction of the cash transfer modalities that provided relief to emaSwati.
He further commenced by extending heartfelt congratulations to the Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross Society for assuming the chairmanship of the SAPRCS group. He expressed confidence in Baphalali’s ability to serve diligently during their tenure.
Additionally, he acknowledged Kate Forbes for her appointment as President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), commending her leadership.
Prime Minister Dlamini highlighted the invaluable role played by the Red Cross Society in Eswatini and further lauded their tireless efforts in uplifting the lives of vulnerable populations.
He cited their significant contributions during challenging periods such as the Covid-19 pandemic and national disasters, emphasizing their vital role in addressing food insecurity and healthcare challenges.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of His Majesty’s Government, Prime Minister Dlamini thanked the IFRC and the entire Red Cross Movement for their financial and technical support extended to the Baphalali Eswatini Red Cross Society.
He commended their exemplary work during the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly their gate-to-gate awareness campaign that reached approximately 180,000 households and over 400,000 people across 42 constituencies.
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The Prime Minister also acknowledged the pioneering role of Baphalali in implementing cash transfer modalities in Eswatini, in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) and partners such as the Finnish Red Cross.
He praised the dignity afforded to vulnerable individuals through these cash transfers and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting Baphalali in its endeavours.
Furthermore, Prime Minister Dlamini highlighted the importance of collaboration between the Red Cross and government agencies, emphasizing the vital role played by the Red Cross in providing healthcare services and disaster response.
Dlamini encouraged wise utilization of limited resources and urged coordination with stakeholders to maximize impact and avoid duplication of efforts.
The Premier called upon the Red Cross Movement to continue supporting Southern African countries in addressing challenges such as droughts, floods, and potential pandemics.
He emphasized the need for alignment with government priorities and urged a focus on preparedness to mitigate the effects of climate change.