Newly Elected Zonal Board Members Receive Training on ERCS Operations
The Ethiopian Red Cross Society (ERCS) conducted a two-day Board Induction Training for newly elected Zonal Board Members from September3-4, in Bishoftu City.
Board leaders from the East Shewa, RC, West Shewa, Sheger, and West Hararghe Zones of Oromia Regional State, as well as the West Gojam and North Shewa Zones of Amhara Region, participated in the training.
Opening the training, Ato Mohammed Jamal, Deputy Secretary General for Branch Affairs and Localization, welcomed the participants and explained that the induction was designed to familiarize newly elected board members with the nature of ERCS and their roles and responsibilities as board leaders. He emphasized that working together would enable the Society to build a stronger National Society capable of reaching communities early and providing assistance when disasters strike.
The training covered key topics including the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, the nature and mandate of ERCS, emblems and Fundamental Principles, volunteerism, and the relationship between boards and management. Participants also received briefings on International Humanitarian Law, human resources, finance and procurement procedures, followed by discussions and experience sharing.
As part of the program, participants visited a revenue-generation initiative in Ada’a Woreda under the East Shewa Zone Branch. The East Shewa Zone Branch Head, Ada’a Woreda Branch Office Coordinator, and Woreda Board Chairperson briefed participants on the initiative, including the process of establishing the project and the challenges encountered. Participants appreciated the visit as a valuable learning experience and shared lessons from their respective branches.
Closing the training, ERCS Secretary General Ato Abera Lulessa said the induction was organized to ensure that board members understand the institution they are entrusted to lead. He urged board members to lead, monitor and oversee their branches responsibly and with ownership, while providing effective support to branch management.
Ato Abera also highlighted key priorities of the Society’s Five-Year Strategic Plan and outlined the expectations of zonal board members in contributing to its implementation. He noted the growing confidence of partners in ERCS and encouraged branches to maintain the momentum and continue moving the Society forward.
This was the first round of the Board Induction Training, with similar sessions planned for other branches in different locations.
We Live for Humanity!