The Kenya Red Cross West Pokot Branch marked an incredible milestone as it celebrated 60 years of selfless service to the community.
The celebration event, held in collaboration with the global Red Cross community, brought together community leaders, volunteers, partners, and supporters to honour the branch’s dedication to humanitarian work and its impact on the lives of countless individuals across the region.
The celebration, dubbed “60 Years of Saving Lives and Promoting Human Dignity”, highlighted the significant achievements and contributions of the Red Cross in West Pokot.
Over the years, the branch has been at the forefront of disaster response, health services, community empowerment, and youth leadership programmes, with a strong focus on helping the most vulnerable populations.
Speaking at the event held at Makutano Garden, West Pokot County Red Cross Coordinator Stella Kapello emphasized that the main aim of the celebration was to honour the tireless contributions of volunteers, partners, and donors who have been instrumental in the branch’s success.
“Today, we celebrate not just our achievements but also the people who have made this possible. Our volunteers, donors, and partners are the backbone of Kenya Red Cross, and without their dedication and support, we wouldn’t be where we are today,” Kapello said.
She highlighted the significant achievements of the branch, noting its resilience in tackling the challenges posed by the region’s diverse needs.
“This anniversary is a celebration of our achievements and a reminder of the continuous dedication we need to uphold. The work done by our volunteers and partners has been instrumental in bringing hope and support to vulnerable populations,” she said.
The coordinator also highlighted the branch’s ongoing efforts in disaster response, noting their active involvement in tackling some of the most pressing challenges facing the region.
“Over the years, we have responded to a range of disasters, from landslides and floods to rockfalls and droughts. Our commitment to assisting during these critical moments has remained unwavering,” she added.
She said through their blood donation programmes, they have been able to supply many hospitals across Kenya with vital blood supplies, helping save countless lives in both emergency and routine medical situations.
“Through our blood donation programmes, we have supported hospitals across Kenya, ensuring that life-saving blood supplies are available when needed the most,” Kapello stated.
Kapello emphasized the organisation’s role in nurturing youth leadership, saying that for six decades, the Kenya Red Cross West Pokot Branch has not only been a pillar of support during times of crisis, but it has also focused on empowering the next generation.
“We have given young people the mandate to lead and promote positive change, especially in schools,” she said.
She expressed the organisation’s joy in having achieved its goals over the past six decades.
“We are incredibly happy because our goals have been achieved. From providing emergency assistance to empowering young leaders, we have made significant strides in improving the lives of those in need,” she shared.
The Chairman of Patrons in all the schools in West Pokot County, Barnabas Simatwa, emphasized the importance of the Red Cross clubs in schools, saying that every school in West Pokot has Red Cross clubs where students learn critical life-saving skills.
Simatwa further highlighted the positive influence of these clubs, stating that they not only equipped students with practical skills but also fostered a sense of responsibility and leadership.
“By engaging with the Red Cross at a young age, students are becoming active contributors to the well-being of their communities. They gain valuable skills that can save lives and promote safety wherever they go,” said Simatwa.
He highlighted an important initiative known as the “Humanity Power Walk,” in which students participated by visiting orphanage families to offer support.
“Through the Humanity Walk, students go beyond the classroom and engage directly with communities. They visit orphanages, providing essential assistance and offering moral support to those in need,” Simatwa added.
The celebration included a series of activities, such as a health camp providing free medical services, a blood donation drive, and an exhibition showcasing the branch’s major accomplishments and milestones.
By Agneta Chebet