NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto has reaffirmed the government’s partnership with the Kenya Red Cross Society, describing the humanitarian organisation as a critical pillar in the country’s emergency response system and a key partner in the rollout of the National Ambulance Dispatch Centre.
Speaking at State House, Nairobi, during a meeting with Kenya Red Cross officials led by Secretary-General Ahmed Idris, the President praised the society’s contribution to disaster response and humanitarian assistance, citing its nationwide network of more than 200,000 volunteers.
“With a large national network of more than 200,000 volunteers, it has been the saving grace at times of emergency,” President Ruto said.
The President said the government would work closely with the Kenya Red Cross in implementing the National Ambulance Dispatch Centre, an initiative aimed at improving emergency medical response and strengthening access to quality healthcare across the country.
“In the efforts to continue improving the provision of quality universal healthcare, the Red Cross will be a key partner as we roll out the National Ambulance Dispatch Centre that will ensure timely emergency response and access to healthcare for all,” he said.
The proposed dispatch centre is expected to coordinate ambulance services nationally, improving response times during medical emergencies and ensuring patients are referred to appropriate health facilities more efficiently.
Ruto also welcomed the Kenya Red Cross Society’s plans to establish a long-term endowment fund to provide sustainable financing for its humanitarian operations.
He said the fund would strengthen the organisation’s capacity to respond to emergencies and support vulnerable communities during disasters and other crises.
“I noted Kenya Red Cross’ determination to establish a long-term endowment fund to secure sustainable financing for the crucial role of responding to citizens in distress nationally,” the President said.
The Kenya Red Cross Society has for decades played a central role in disaster preparedness, emergency medical services, humanitarian relief, blood donation campaigns, drought response, flood relief and community resilience programmes.
Its volunteer network is often among the first responders during natural disasters, road traffic accidents, disease outbreaks and other emergencies.