Red Cross chief visits Benoni

The CEO and secretary general of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), Jagan Chapagain, visited the South African Red Cross Society’s (Sarcs) early childhood development (ECD) Centre in Northmead on August 6.

Chapagain, accompanied by a Sarcs delegation, was welcomed by Grade R learners and treated to the sounds of marimba music performed by the Kristo Inkosi Marimba team from Kwa-Thema.

Branch manager Phachane Tabola led the group on a tour of the facility, highlighting how the centre supports the educational growth and development of its young learners.

Visiting SA for the first time, Chapagain described the Sarcs as one of its very valued members globally and said his trip was aimed at showing solidarity for the work the organisation does in the country.

“Our interest has been orphans and vulnerable children, so we are looking into those programmes. There’s a planned meeting with government officials and leaders where we will discuss how we can strengthen the humanitarian and social programmes of the Red

Cross in the country. I believe the Sarcs has the potential to be a key player not only in SA but also beyond, supporting neighbouring countries in humanitarian work.”

Before visiting the ECD centre, Chapagain and his team visited an old-age home in Primrose.

“Our visit to Benoni and other centres is to observe and learn how activities are happen. Because we operate in 191 countries, we also connect our members to share good practices from one country and take those ideas to other countries. These visits are also important because we get to offer ideas and funding,” he said.

Expressing gratitude for the visit, Tabola said: “We feel privileged, and it motivates us to see that the work we are doing is recognised at this level. We are hoping for more visits like this and more funding to enable our society to expand.”

The Benoni branch of the Sarcs is one of the oldest organisations in the area, providing a wide range of crucial services.

In addition to running the ECD centre, the organisation offers youth development initiatives, health testing services, disaster management and organisational development programmes.

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