For over 100 years the South African Red Cross Society has been committed to come to the assistance of the vulnerable whilst protecting their dignity. “Nothing has changed we remain committed to our citizens. We educate people on HIV and AIDS so as to fight stigma and we support people living with the virus so that they can lift their heads up high and have a positive attitude to life. The turmoil and suffering of humanity is there for all to see on television – the devastation of the African family fabric is due to this pandemic – it’s a war that we have to win” says Ms Mandisa Kalako-Williams the President of South African Red Cross Society (SARCS) and continued to say that at the annual general assembly of the South African Red Cross Society (SARCS) that is to take place in Durban this coming weekend will be focussing on “ Protecting Human Dignity” and seeking innovative means to reach those who seek our help.

The objective of the meeting is to discuss the statutory issues of the SARCS, in line with global developments and to map the way forward in addressing the immediate needs of South African communities.

The general assembly brings together Red Cross volunteers, representing the 29 branches of SARCS, the governing board and observers for the Namibian, Mozambique, Lesotho and Swaziland Red Cross Societies. Others guest are Ms François Le Goff, the Head of Delegation for the Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Southern Africa, Ms Seija Tyrninoksa the Federation’s representative in South Africa and Mr Thomas Russel the Southern African Cooperation Delegate for the International Committee of the Red Cross and Red Crescent.