World Red Cross Day has become an important day in the history of humanitarian work and is commemorated annually on the 08th of May to celebrate a big role that is played by National Societies, Red Cross Federation (IFRC) and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in the life saving events as well as assisting the vulnerable social people all around the world. It is on the birthday of Henri Dunant who was the founder of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement in the year 1863 in the Geneva, Switzerland.
The Movement aims to provide relief to the human beings in distress and desolation due to war, food shortage, epidemic diseases or natural calamities. The celebrations are highlighted through a special theme each year to fulfil the aim of bringing awareness of the work accomplished each year. It also aims to attract more private or governmental organizations to be active members and participate regionally to assist people in need.
Different regions within South Africa are celebrating the day through hosting various events from; playing of indigenous games with the youth and OVC’s (orphans and vulnerable children while educating and equipping them with life skills, dissemination at schools through peer education by different branches (with the emphasis on drug abuse and gender-based violence), cleaning, food preparation and pampering at Old Age homes, offering support to a children’s therapy centre and Thanks Giving Tea with sponsors/donors.