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International Federation of Red Cross
and Red Crescent Societies

Cover photo Jaques Godon / Federation

1997
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies
P. O. Box 372
1211 Geneva 19, Switzerland
Telephone [41 22] 730 42 22
Telex 412 133 FRC CH
Telefax [41 22] 733 03 95
World Wide Web Site: http://www.ifrc.org

In the 1990s we have witnessed a grave increase in Africa’s need for humanitarian intervention, stemming from the continent’s increasingly complex socio-political challenges. The scope of disaster-related vulnerabilities continue to demand an effective use of the Red Cross and Red Crescent’s regional and global network of sources. In response, National Societies and the Federation Secretariat have jointly undertaken resource sharing, cooperation and promotion of open dialogue on common problems and workable solutions.

The National Societies of Africa continue to demonstrate their determination to persevere through crises and possess a new sense of ownership, ingenuity and force to face Africa’s humanitarian problems. The Federation Secretariat has committed itself to create a flexible operations system to enable it to effectively support Africa’s dynamics of change. Together, as we face day-to-day and long-term needs, we recognise the necessity to work effectively as a Federation.

Africa Perspective is a brief overview of the Federation Secretariat’s strategies to best support and accommodate Africa’s patterns of change.

November 1997

Under Secretary General
Disaster Response and Operations Coordination