Accra: The Ghana Red Cross Society has made an appeal to the government and other stakeholders to start acknowledging the society's crucial auxiliary roles in health and emergency responses. Dr. Edward Donkoh, the National President of the society, emphasized the necessity for the Ministry of Health, Education, Interior, and Defence to incorporate the Red Cross's functions into their programs and projects.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Donkoh highlighted that by the Acts of the Red Cross, the President of Ghana serves as the Chief Patron, while the Regional Ministers are also recognized as Patrons. He stressed the importance of collaboration, stating, "We really need to work together; we have the volunteers and the skills for emergency responses and management." This statement was made during a visit by Dr. Donkoh and the Regional Executives to the Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, to brief him on his responsibilities as Regional Patron and to bestow upon him a symbolic garment of authority as a lead Patron.
Dr. Donkoh noted that the Red Cross possesses the necessary expertise to contribute to government committees and emphasized that their role is distinct from those of NADMO and the Ghana Ambulance Service. He urged government bodies not to overlook or marginalize their involvement in emergency and disaster management, pointing out that globally, Red Cross Societies play a significant role, and Ghana should support its function in these auxiliary capacities.
He acknowledged the government's support through allocations that aid in running their activities. The Red Cross, with a volunteer force exceeding 72,000, is involved in disaster emergency responses, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), as well as other health emergencies.
Mr. Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister, warmly welcomed the group and expressed his appreciation for the insights into his role as a Minister. He committed his full support to their initiatives, stating, "Health is my passion, as RCC, welfare is key and so we will do our bid to improve humanity together."