By Michael Gwarisa
The International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) in partnership with the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society (ZRCS) is hosting the 3rd International Conference for Families of Missing Persons which is a platform designed for families of missing persons from all over the world.
The conference is a safe space where families of missing persons can connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. Participants can gain insights, get inspired, and inspire others going through similar challenges. Apart from families, the event was graced by officials from Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), Interpol and Ministry of Public Service, Labor and Social Welfare.
In a speech read on his behalf by Mr Geshem Hombarume the ZRCS Human Resources and Admin Director, Zimbabwe Red Cross Society Secretary General Mr Elias Hwenga said the conference serves as a networking and knowledge-sharing platform, providing an opportunity for families to connect, share experiences, and offer and receive inspiration from others navigating similar challenges.
For the next two days, we will have 48 hours of live broadcasting from central studios in Geneva and Australia, supplemented by multiple local conference hubs hosted by International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) delegations and National Societies across the globe, including the Zimbabwe Red Cross Society. We will facilitate in-person discussions, allowing for ease of communication and exchange of ideas. So please feel free to share your experiences with us and each other,” said Mr Hwenga.
He added that the event marks a significant milestone in their joint efforts to provide solace, support, and crucial information to families affected by the heart-wrenching experience of having a loved one go missing.
“Families, you are not only participants but active contributors to this event. Without you, this was not going to be possible. This conference offers a unique opportunity for families to be part of a global solidarity network, providing strength through unity. This platform will also provide a chance for dialogues with Red Cross and Red Crescent practitioners globally, allowing an understanding of search processes and associated challenges.”
The event will feature 48 hours of live broadcasts from two central studios in Geneva and Australia, as well as multiple conference hubs hosted by International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) delegations and National Societies worldwide. These local hubs (like the one the ZRCS will have) will facilitate in-person discussions, allowing for easy listening, learning, and discussions. Additionally, there will be pre-recorded learning materials where families can share their personal experiences and gain insights into the experiences of others globally.
Magareth Ruzive, the Programs Officer Migration and Repatriation in the Ministry of Public Service, Labor and Social Welfare said, “I hope this conference will give families a time to reflect and discuss with others on the challenges they face in their quest to find closure regarding what might have happened to their missing relatives and friends.”
Assistant Commissioner Lifa from the Zimbabwe Republic Police said helping families find closure and locate their missing loved ones was their priority mission.
“The missing person program is very important to us as the ZRP, in essence, is part of our mandate to ensure that we all those that are reported missing, thorough investigations are carried out and we have answers as to the fate of the missing persons.”
He further said the 3rd conference of missing persons was providing a platform for families and various organisations to work as a team in a bid to find missing persons.
