Sudan assumes the presidency of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Network for East Africa

Written by Ziad Abdel Fattah:

The General Assembly of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Network concluded its work in Port Sudan.East Africa The Indian Ocean, which was hosted by the Sudanese government and the Sudanese Red Crescent Society from July 14 to 16, with the participation of representatives from 15 countries, along with delegations from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the International Committee of the Red Cross.

The closing session witnessed the honoring of a number of figures who played prominent roles in humanitarian work, as the Secretary-General of the Sudanese Red Crescent Society, Ahmed Al-Tayeb Suleiman, praised Dr. Abbas Juliet, describing him as one of the most prominent supporters of Sudan within the International Federation system.

Suleiman said that Juliet made great contributions to Sudan during his time working at the International Federation, stressing that honoring him comes in appreciation of his humanitarian role and his efforts in supporting the Sudanese people.

The association also honored Sheikh Abdul-Moneim Abu Darira, in recognition of his humanitarian stances during the war, after he provided shelter for displaced people in Al-Jazirah State and neighboring areas, and contributed to supporting the Sudanese Red Crescent teams to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to those affected.

Suleiman emphasized that Abu Darira set an example of social responsibility by harnessing his capabilities to serve those affected and support humanitarian relief efforts.

For his part, the Secretary-General of the Sudanese Red Crescent Society in the Red Sea State, Dr. Abdul Rahman Bal-Eid, explained that Dr. Abbas Juliet previously held the position of Vice President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and also served as Secretary-General of the Kenyan Red Cross Society for twenty years. He was the first African candidate for the presidency of the International Federation in Geneva, noting that his contributions had a clear impact on supporting Sudan.

The Sudanese Red Crescent assumes the presidency of the network.

In press statements following the conclusion of the meetings, Ahmed Al-Tayeb Suleiman announced the end of the current session of the network, which was chaired by the Ugandan Red Cross Society, confirming that the Sudanese Red Crescent Society will assume the chairmanship of the network during the next session.

He explained that the meetings discussed developments in the humanitarian situation in East African and Indian Ocean countries, as well as the challenges facing national societies and ways to enhance the humanitarian response in the region.

He noted that Sudan’s assumption of the chairmanship of the network represents an opportunity to strengthen cooperation with international partners and to highlight the growing humanitarian needs within the country, in light of the ongoing displacement crisis and the return of large numbers of Sudanese from neighboring countries.

He stressed that Sudan needs greater support from donors and international organizations, especially in light of the funding challenges facing humanitarian work globally, noting that the Sudanese Red Crescent Society continues to provide basic assistance, including food and health services, to displaced persons and returnees in various states.