Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS) has organised trainings to equip its volunteers with first aid skills to handle stampedes and violence related to the May 21 2019 Tripartite Elections.
Speaking in Mzuzu on Wednesday after opening the training for the Northern Region, MRCS secretary general McBain Kanongodza said the organisation is taking precautionary measures considering that stampedes and violence are likely when large groups of people meet.
“For that reason, we always take stock of how best we can offer services should need arise. We want to ensure that our volunteers do their services in accordance with the principles that guide our organisation,” he said.
Kanongodza said the organisation will also raise awareness to the community at large to ensure that their services are known and understood.
“There are moments that those we are supposed to serve may not understand us. We need to tell them what our job entails,” he said.
Teresa Chirambo, a volunteer from Rumphi, said the skills gained will help her handle victims of violence and stampedes during and after the forthcoming elections.
She said the initiative is important for saving lives during big events such as elections.
“Our underlying motive is to save lives of people whenever violence takes place while waiting for medical personnel,” she said.
On May 21, the country will elect 462 councillors, 193 members of Parliament and a President.
