The Parliament of Uganda has pledged to support humanitarian activities and operations of the Uganda Red Cross Society.
Speaking at the Uganda Red Cross Society National Council meeting in Kampala, Herbert Edmund Ariko, the Soroti East Member of Parliament pledged parliament’s support towards the society.
“I understand that the Red Cross is supposed to receive funding from the government through the relevant committees of Parliament. However, this support is often insufficient. Your funding usually comes through the Ministry of Health, overseen by the Health Committee under the Office of the Prime Minister. I assure you, my office will provide guidance to ensure that the relevant committees allocate and ringfence the funds meant for the Uganda Red Cross Society,” Ariko who represented the Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, stated
He noted that parliament will ensure that the revised Uganda Red Cross Bill is reintroduced for consideration, scrutiny, debate, and enactment into law.
He also applauded Uganda Red Cross Society for its timely response to emergencies, including road traffic accidents, disasters, and disease outbreaks.
He emphasized the importance of strengthening the Uganda Red Cross’ role, enhancing its efficiency and effectiveness.
Although the Ugandan Parliament approved the Uganda Red Cross Society Bill in March 2021, it awaits the President’s assent or further deliberation in the House.
Robert Kwesiga, the Secretary General of URCS, explained that the bill aims to formalize the auxiliary role of the National Society in disaster risk management and humanitarian response within Uganda.
“We are striving to ensure that our auxiliary role is fully integrated and aligned with government programs, both operationally and financially,” Kwesiga remarked.
Established by an Act of Parliament in 1964, the Uganda Red Cross Society has become the largest and most reliable humanitarian agency in Uganda, working closely with the Ministry of Health and the Office of the Prime Minister.