The Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) marked World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day on Thursday with a vibrant celebration held in Kiambu County, the symbolic birthplace of the organization.
This year’s global theme, “On the Side of Humanity,” served as a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and service embodied by millions of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers around the world and across Kenya, who respond daily to humanitarian emergencies with unwavering dedication.
The event was steeped in history and symbolism, with activities stretching across key landmarks in Kiambu. A procession began at Kirigiti, winding its way through the bustling town and culminating in a vibrant gathering at Kiambu High School. There, thousands of residents, dignitaries, volunteers, and school children joined hands in celebrating the legacy and impact of the Red Cross movement in Kenya.
Among the highlights was a heritage tour of the iconic Kirathimo Social Hall in Limuru, where the roots of the Kenya Red Cross Society took firm hold. Opened on December 27, 1969, by Councilor Margaret Kenyatta, Kirathimo was envisioned as a sanctuary for healing, learning, and service. Over the decades, it has evolved into a cornerstone of humanitarian action, nurturing community health programs, emergency response training, and youth empowerment.
Speaking at the main celebration at Kiambu High School, the Secretary General of KRCS Dr. Ahmed Idris emphasized the society’s evolving impact and the importance of investing in future humanitarians.
He proudly announced that KRCS has successfully employed over 3,000 interns, reaching a significant milestone in its commitment to youth engagement and capacity building.
“This achievement is not just a number, it represents lives changed, skills built, and the future of humanitarianism in Kenya secured,” Dr. Idris said.
The Chairperson KRCS Geoffrey Korir underscored the strategic importance of Kiambu as one of the country’s most densely populated counties.
“With such a large and dynamic population, our collaboration with the county government is crucial in scaling up our emergency preparedness and health interventions,” he noted.
Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamtangi, who flagged off the event at the county government headquarters, lauded the Red Cross for its historical role in shaping community resilience and pledged continued partnership to enhance disaster response and community well-being. “We are proud to be part of this history and excited about the future possibilities that collaboration with KRCS brings,” he said.
Kirathimo Social Hall, which remains a living monument to humanitarian service, hosts youth innovation camps, interfaith peace dialogues, and disaster coordination meetings. Looking ahead, stakeholders unveiled ambitious plans to transform Kirathimo into a Centralized Disaster Response Hub to address the growing risks posed by climate change and urbanization.
As cultural performances, testimonials from volunteers, and exhibitions on community impact filled the air with energy and pride, the day closed not just as a commemoration, but as a reaffirmation of purpose.
From its humble beginnings at Kirathimo to its expansive reach today, the Kenya Red Cross Society stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of volunteerism and humanity, also reclaiming its rightful place as the heart of Kenya’s humanitarian heritage.
By Grace Naishoo
