Chinese Ambassador Ding Xiaowen has donated P50,000 cash to the Botswana Red Cross in an effort to facilitate cooperate social investment which it has embarked on in the past. The money will go all the way to assisting the needy and the vulnerable.

Speaking during the event Botswana Red Cross Society Secretary General Mabel Rammekwa said, “Red Cross is a voluntary aid organization auxiliary to the government of Botswana and is guided by the seven fundamental principles of the movement which are humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality. ”

She says that Red Cross was established in 1859 in Italy when trickled down to other nations spreading throughout the universe was started in Botswana by an act of parliament ( CAP 64:01) as an independent national society in 1968 and currently has 42 branches across the country is a neutral, independent, humanitarian organization shoes core mission is to identify, prevent and alleviate human suffering and foster human dignity in all communities.

Speaking during the check handing over, Ambassador Ding Xiaowen said his government has been donating and giving back to the Botswana community in an effort to making a difference in communities by striving towards influencing communities positively.

Xiaowen also known as ambassador “Boipuso” is leaving in two weeks. He says he is leaving with reluctance, “I thank Batswana for the hospitality, peacefulness, friendship they have exhibited during my stay here, when I get back home I will do the same for my people.”

Acknowledging the donation Minister of Presidential Affairs and Public Administration Honorable Daniel Kwelagobe said the donation will go a long way to helping the Red Cross implement its programs. He expressed appreciation at the Chinese gesture saying that “I particularly acknowledge the fact that the Chinese always make it a point to do something for Batswana.”

“Our private sector is very small and this limits the donor base therefore we are highly appreciate this gesture by the Chinese Embassy.”

In conclusion Rammekwa said, “Red Cross needs volunteers who are professionals and non professionals to help drive its course.”

( Gazette, 11-17 February, 2009)