Turkish Red Crescent and Ethiopian Red Cross Societies explore opportunities for collaboration

On 25 August 2018, high officials of the Turkish Red Crescent Society, Vice President Dr. Naci Yorlumaz and Senior Director of International Relations Mr. Kaan, visited the Ethiopian Red Cross Society (ERCS) to explore areas for collaboration. ERCS President Ato Abera Tola, Secretary General Mrs. Frehiwot Worku, and other management staff of ERCS took part in the discussion.

During the meeting the Turkish Red Crescent Society and ERCS discussed opportunities for cooperation, especially in emergency response, business development and resource mobilization. ERCS shared its experience and plans for income generation activities, such as commercial ambulances, workplace first aid, and the expansion of pharmaceutical services.

“What the ERCS is doing to stand by itself is something exemplary to other Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies”, said Dr. Yorlumaz.

During the visit, Dr. Yorlumaz also spoke with H.E. Dr. Mulatu Teshome, President of the FDRE and Patron of ERCS, and went to see the Center of Capacity Development for Humanitarian Services and the foundation construction of the thirty story twin multi-purpose building in Addis Ababa.

The two Societies will mutually benefit from working together and sharing best practices, which will result in enhanced humanitarian activities provided in their respective communities. A Memorandum of Understanding is now being drafted between the Turkish Red Crescent Society and ERCS.