Ouagadougou: The Burkina Faso Red Cross (CRBF) commemorated World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day on Friday, which this year was themed "United in Humanity" in a context of humanitarian challenges. Celebrated every May 8 in homage to the founder of the movement, Henry Dunant, this day aims to highlight the action of volunteers and humanitarian staff who intervene daily to "prevent and alleviate human suffering," the organization recalled in a statement.

According to Burkina Information Agency, this celebration has a particular resonance in Burkina Faso, where actors of the movement have been deployed for several decades at the heart of crises to assist the most vulnerable populations. Beyond paying tribute to the volunteers, often from the communities they serve, this day is also marked by a moment of silence for those who have lost their lives on mission. The organization took the opportunity to reiterate "the imperative need to preserve humanitarian space," in accordance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL).

The International Movement, with its 160 years of existence, has reaffirmed its cardinal principles of neutrality and impartiality, essential for reaching the most difficult-to-access areas. In Burkina Faso, the celebration is taking the form of local initiatives. According to the Secretary General of the CRBF, W. Lazare Zoungrana, all provincial committees are mobilized through "assistance operations, sanitation actions and awareness sessions".

In Ouagadougou, a blood drive and distributions of food and essential supplies were organized on Friday. The festivities will continue on Saturday with an open house at the Kadiogo provincial headquarters, allowing the public to learn about careers in humanitarian work. Burkina Faso continues to face a humanitarian crisis, where the Red Cross intervenes in addition to the efforts of the government and international partners.