The United Nations, international diplomats, humanitarian agencies, and development partners on Friday, May 8, 2026, joined the Ghana Red Cross Society and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in Accra, Ghana, to commemorate this year’s World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day.
The high-profile event brought together global humanitarian stakeholders, government institutions, diplomats, and volunteers to promote international cooperation, disaster preparedness, humanitarian service, and community resilience.
International Diplomats and Humanitarian Leaders Attend
Among the distinguished personalities present was the United Nations Security Advisor and Representative for Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, Her Excellency Lihong Shen, who participated alongside several diplomats and international officials.
The Embassy of the State of Qatar in Accra was represented by His Excellency Imam Saleh Rashid Al-Mansouri, Deputy to the Qatar Ambassador, while the Norwegian Embassy was represented by Second Secretary for Political Affairs, Her Excellency Vilde Larsen Nakkim.
Also present at the celebration were officials from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), including Cooperation Coordinator based in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, Sir Jorge Adan Munoz, as well as the Program Coordinator of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC Ghana and sister states), Mr. Noor Baya Pwani.
The Managing Director of Consolidated Bank Ghana Limited (CBG), Sir Ameen Abdul, who also serves as a member of the IFRC Africa Governance Group, attended together with officials from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), government representatives, and traditional leaders.
Launch of the 2026 World Disaster Report
One of the major highlights of the event was the official launch of the 2026 World Disaster Report.
The report was jointly launched by the United Nations representative, officials from the Norwegian Embassy, IFRC representatives, and leadership of the Ghana Red Cross Society, including the President and Secretary-General of the organization.
Following the launch, copies of the report were distributed to institutions, stakeholders, development partners, and members of the public to enhance awareness, policy dialogue, and disaster preparedness planning.
Organizers emphasized the importance of strengthening global response systems and improving coordination among governments, humanitarian organizations, and local communities in addressing disasters and humanitarian crises.
Recognition of Ghana Red Cross Volunteers
The celebration also honored hardworking Ghana Red Cross volunteers from all sixteen (16) regions of Ghana for their dedication, sacrifice, and outstanding contribution to humanitarian service.
Several volunteers received awards in recognition of their commitment to emergency response, disaster relief, health outreach, and community support activities across the country.
Officials praised the volunteers for their tireless efforts in supporting vulnerable communities during emergencies and national crises.
Promoting Global Humanitarian Solidarity
Speakers at the event highlighted the growing importance of global solidarity, volunteerism, and diplomatic partnerships in tackling humanitarian challenges affecting communities worldwide.
The event concluded with renewed calls for stronger international cooperation, increased investment in disaster preparedness, and continued support for humanitarian interventions aimed at protecting vulnerable populations across the globe. Ghana Red Cross Society unicef