The Ghana Red Cross Society (GRCS) Youth Secretariat in the Upper West Region convened a youth summit, aptly named “Red Crossers Connect,” on March 2, 2025, to revitalize the essence of volunteerism and service to humanity among young people in the region. The summit, themed “Reliving the Spirit of Service to Humanity: the Role of the Youth,” sought to address a perceived decline in youth engagement with the GRCS’s fundamental principles and humanitarian mission. The event aimed to reconnect young people with the core values of the organization and inspire them to become active participants in addressing the pressing humanitarian needs of their communities. The summit highlighted the importance of the GRCS’s long-standing contributions to societal development and the need for renewed commitment from the youth in carrying forward its legacy of service.
Mr. Umar Musah Bang-bieu, the Upper West Regional Youth Representative of the GRCS, emphasized the organization’s historical significance in providing humanitarian services across Ghana since its inception in 1958. He outlined the GRCS’s wide range of activities, including disaster response, first aid training, community health services, and youth empowerment programs, all of which contribute to advancing human dignity and societal well-being. Bang-bieu stressed the importance of the seven fundamental principles of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) – humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality – which underpin the work of the GRCS as a national society. He expressed concern, however, about a perceived fading of these principles among young people, hence the need for the summit to reignite their commitment.
Bang-bieu underscored the significance of “Red Crossers Connect” in reviving the spirit of volunteerism among the youth, urging them to assume responsibility for addressing the escalating humanitarian challenges facing their communities. He highlighted the interconnectedness of global issues such as climate change and conflict, emphasizing the crucial role that young people can play in addressing these complex problems through volunteerism and service. He appealed to the youth to embrace the values of the GRCS and contribute actively to improving the lives of others.
Mr. Rauf Issahaque, the Acting Upper West Regional Manager of the GRCS, echoed Bang-bieu’s sentiments, urging participants to embody the fundamental principles and ideals of the IFRC in their actions. He challenged the young attendees to identify practical ways to support the founding vision of both the GRCS and the IFRC, and to sustain the organization’s achievements over the years. Issahaque encouraged the participants to reflect on their individual roles in serving humanity and to find avenues for contributing their skills and time to the betterment of society. He emphasized that while the GRCS originated from a single individual’s dream, its continued success relies on the collective commitment and active participation of its members, including young people.
The “Red Crossers Connect” summit featured a diverse array of activities designed to engage and empower the participating youth. Keynote speeches from prominent figures in the humanitarian field provided inspiration and insights into the importance of service. Panel discussions allowed for in-depth exploration of contemporary humanitarian challenges and potential solutions. Networking sessions facilitated connections and collaborations among participants, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Practical training in basic first aid skills equipped the youth with essential knowledge and tools to assist others in need.
The summit attracted a notable gathering of individuals committed to humanitarian service, including Dr. Zakarea Al-Hassan Balure, an optometrist and superintendent at Bliss Eye Care; Mr. Abudi Razak, National Youth President of GRCS and Youth President of the West/Coast; Mr. Mohammed A. Alphaa, patron of NJ Ahmadiyya College’s Red Cross Club; and Mr. Ankpenuba P.N. Wisdom, patron of Wa Technical Institute’s Red Cross Club. Their presence underscored the importance of the event and the collective commitment to nurturing the next generation of humanitarian leaders. The summit served as a catalyst for revitalizing the spirit of volunteerism among young people in the Upper West Region, empowering them to contribute meaningfully to the betterment of their communities and the advancement of human dignity.
