Ethiopian Red Cross Society Urged to Build Capacity to Achieve Mission

Addis Ababa, June 8, 2025 (ENA)— President Taye Astke Selassie said the Ethiopian Red Cross Society (ERCS) should focus on building capacity that enables it to prevent and alleviate human suffering through appropriate and timely humanitarian and development initiatives. 

The President and Patron of the Society made the remark during the 90th Anniversary of the Ethiopian Red Cross Society held at Addis International Convention Center today.

Describing the ERCS as a beacon of compassion and generosity established amid challenges, he commended the Society on the behalf of Ethiopian government and the people for its humanitarian activities in the past years.

According to him, members of the Society have made heroic sacrifices by confronting the challenges Ethiopia faced against its sovereignty.

At present when international humanitarian support is in decline, the ERCS needs to give attention to building a sustainable capacity to carry out humanitarian work independently, he added.

As we strive to become self-sufficient in food and empower ourselves through innovation at the national level, we must consider it a matter of sovereignty to avoid dependency and support our vulnerable people with our own resources, the President underscored.

On his part, ERCS President Abera Tola said the government is significantly supporting the Society to enhance its capacity.

According to him, the Society has set a plan to increase its membership to 20 million over the next ten years and cover its expenses.

By 2035 ERCS would sustain its operation and humanitarian work, becoming a regional leader in humanitarian assistance capable of providing support for other societies in Africa, the President said.

 International Committee of the Red Cross Delegation for Ethiopia Head Simone Casabianca-Aeschlimann highlighted ERCS's nine decades of compassion, courage, and resilience, supporting those affected by conflict, violence, and natural disasters across Ethiopia.

“The ERCS has stood firm through times of peace and peril achieving remarkable progress, often under extreme pressure,” she said, adding that “these milestones are carved not only into the legacy of ERCS, but into the lives of millions whose suffering was alleviated by your presence.”

 Simone further stated that “the ICRC has walked this challenging yet rewarding journey over all these years. Our cooperation is grounded in a deep and enduring relationship, dating back to 1935.”

 The Head appreciated the dedication of its leadership, staff, and thousands of volunteers.

 “We are confident that this milestone will inspire renewed purpose and amplify your strength.”

 Former patrons of the ERCS, President Mulatu Teshome and President Sahle-Work Zewdie, and senior government officials as well as ambassadors attended the anniversary.