Kenya Red Cross

Earlier today in Geneva, Kenya Red Cross Secretary General Dr. Ahmed Idris, alongside Julianne Kamau, 1st Deputy Governor of the Kenya Red Cross, visited the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Kenya to the United Nations Office and other international organizations. They met with H.E. Mrs. Fancy Chepkemoi Too, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Permanent Representative, and H.E. Mr. James Ndirangu Waweru, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative. The discussion focused on strengthened collaboration and coordination between the embassy and the Kenya Red Cross during the ongoing 34th International Conference.

During disasters, many families are often displaced and urgently need support. To ensure effective support, 30 Red Cross staff and volunteers from Samburu, Isiolo and Marsabit Counties completed Emergency Shelter Training last week, aligning with international Sphere standards. The trained champions will share their expertise with Red Cross Action Teams and Community-Based Disaster Response Teams to enhance the region's emergency preparedness. This initiative will be replicated in other regions and is essential for strengthening local capacity and ensuring the safety and resilience of affected communities.

Speaking on a panel during the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies - IFRC General Assembly, Dr. Ahmed Idris, Secretary General of the Kenya Red Cross, shared insights on harnessing technology to enhance humanitarian response in low-resource settings. He emphasised the importance of bridging the digital divide by investing in basic digital infrastructure to ensure communities can benefit from innovative solutions. The Kenya Red Cross is making strides with AI-powered tools, such as our mental health chatbot, developed in collaboration with partners like Microsoft and Safaricom. Dr. Idris highlighted that technology adoption should be gradual, ensuring it addresses real needs and improves efficiency in delivering critical services. He also stressed that while technology can support humanitarian work, it cannot replace the essential human touch and empathy.

Good news coming from Geneva! Our National Youth Chair, Mr. Abdihakim Hassan has been elected to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies - IFRC Youth Commission. Congratulations on this remarkable achievement. We look forward to seeing him represent and elevate the voices of youth on the global stage.

In the spirit of preserving our coastal ecosystems, we planted 6,000 mangrove seedlings over the weekend in Takaungu, Kilifi. Supported by LEAF Charity, this will be a monthly activity aimed at restoring our coastal ecosystems, protecting coastlines, supporting marine life and absorbing carbon, all crucial steps in combating climate change.

Happy #MashujaaDay! Today, we honour the heroes who have shaped our nation’s history and continue to inspire us with their courage, resilience and selflessness. At Kenya Red Cross, we celebrate all the brave individuals—volunteers, staff and communities—who work tirelessly to support those in need. You are the true heroes, making a difference every day.

Why is empowering youth essential for a disaster-resilient future? In this video, our Disaster Risk Reduction Manager, Peter Murgor, explains how equipping young people with practical skills and knowledge can significantly reduce disaster risks. At the ongoing 10th National Symposium for Disaster Risk Reduction in Kilifi, stakeholders have come together to discuss the crucial role of youth in building safer communities.

Following a reported death due to Mpox by the Ministry of Health -Kenya, it's more important than ever to stay protected. Protect yourself and those around you. If you suspect a #Mpox infection, act quickly. Follow these essential steps for safety. Early action saves lives.

Young people are not only the most affected by disasters but also the most impactful in driving change. Led by the Government of Kenya through the National Disaster Operations Centre, the Kenya Red Cross, UN agencies, academia, and civil society organisations, hosted by the County Government of Kilifi, are commemorating the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction. The message: Empowering youth is key to a resilient future. By equipping them with the education and skills to reduce disaster risks, we invest in safer communities and a disaster-free future.