(Issue Monday June 27, 2016)
Officials
of Gambia Red Cross Society (GRCS) on Saturday held their general assembly at a
local hotel in Kololi to elect a new national executive.
The
event was attended by delegates from International Federation of Red Cross and
Red Crescent (IFRC), International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) as well as
GRCS officials, volunteers and partners.
Dr
Muhamadou Kabir Cham was elected unopposed as the new president while the
former minister of Forestry, Jato Sillah, was voted in as vice president
against Fabakary Kalleh of Peace Ambassadors. Njogu Jeng was voted in as the national youth chairperson and Suwaibou
Keita, national treasurer.
Speaking
on the occasion, Anne Elizabeth Leclerc, IFRC head of Sahel Cluster, said IFRC,
just like the ICRC, has been playing active role in supporting the long process
of preparing for the general assembly.
“It
has been challenging, and a long one for that matter, but it has also been very
interesting and hopefully a very instructive process for all of us. We need to congratulate you, your national
society, and as well take the opportunity to celebrate with you,” she said.
She
noted that the GRCS’ position as a leading humanitarian organisation in The
Gambia “is irrefutable”.
“Your
capacity to reach into communities is significant so let’s continue to be proud
and proud in knowing that you have been supporting thousands of vulnerable
people through national programmes and innovative projects with partners and
you continue to do so,” Mrs Elizabeth Leclerc said.
She
pointed out that IFRC has been pleased to support the Gambia Red Cross through
the change process and in addressing some important issues like legal and
financial matters.
“We
are very much committed to accompanying you and to continue working together
and we hope to do even more again in responding to your needs and priorities,”
the IFRC official said.
Amadou
Diop, head of cooperation at ICRC, said that with the support of ICRC, GRCS had
undertaken activities like audit, policy review and the review of GRCS act and
statues.
