(Thursday, 5th August 2010 issue)
The annual
camp of the Banjul Red Cross Branch under the Gambia Red Cross Society is
underway at the Old Jeshwang Simon Bolivar Lower Basic School in Old Jeshwang.
The theme of this year's camp is Urbanization-increase vulnerability. Who is responsible?
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Sheriff Sarr, the Councilor for Old Jeshwang ward described the theme for this year's camp as timely, noting that the event is organised annually to train Red Cross volunteers on leadership, the ideals and principles of the organization, as well as other pertinent issues affecting the lives of young people.
He also donated D1, 500 on behalf of the Old Jeshwang ward as their contribution to the camp.
Omar T. D. Ndow, the acting Branch Officer for Banjul Red Cross Society said the day marks another important day in the history of the Gambia Red Cross Society.
He stated that the event organised by the branch is aimed at training the volunteers on leadership, Red Cross knowledge, ideals and principles, as well as issues affecting their lives.
He also said that the event would also be used as a venue to familiarise with each other and share culture, norms and traditions, adding that it would better prepare the participants for a responsible leadership in life.
He also revealed that the camp will last for ten days, and that it is expected to bring together hundred volunteers across the county, including the sister organisations.
Isatou Ceesay, the person-in-charge of the Old Jeshwang Health Centre urged the participants to take the camp seriously and to always be ready to serve the society when the need arises.
She also urged the participants to be disciplined and have respect for one another at all times.
Other speakers at the occasion included Mariama Jammeh, the Camp Director, Julie Janko, the Youth Area Representative of Banjul Red Cross Branch, Haruna Jobe, who spoke on behalf of the Chairman of Banjul Red Cross Branch and Mamie Sabel Betts, a volunteer delivered the vote of thanks.