The World Humanitarian Day, commemorated on August 19th every year, is to pay tribute to humanitarian workers killed and injured in their line of duty, narrowing down to the health workers for continued effort in their lifesaving missions.
This year, the World Humanitarian Day campaign brings together the global humanitarian community to mark the 20th anniversary of the attack on the UN headquarters in Baghdad, Iraq, and to show unwavering commitment to deliver for the communities they serve, no matter who, where, and what.
However, as the world dedicates this day to relief organizations, we, as Ugandans, should take a deep heave of silence to honor the unsung heroes, dead or alive, for their support and effort in times of need and calamity.
The World Humanitarian Day is celebrated at a time when Uganda is recovering from the soreness of the landfill tragedy that occurred on Saturday, August 10, 2024, in Kiteezi, Wakiso district, which robbed the nation of its potential both in humanity and faith.
It is an opportune time to reflect on our personal ability to be available for a humanitarian cause, redirecting genuine gratitude to the selflessness of the individuals and groups for their sacrifice both monetary and in kind towards the victims of the Kiteezi landfill incident and their families.
Similarly, undaunted appreciation reaches out to the government of Uganda through various sectors for the swift response in the coordinated relief, rescue, rehabilitation, and recovery efforts of people trapped in the mass waste and evacuation of victims from the danger zone.
The Red Cross team and the Uganda Police, a group sworn to saving lives in the heart of calamity irrespective of the rubble and confusion, can’t be left in silence. These individuals endured the slow and damaging effect of the tragedy, physically and psychologically injuring mind, body, and soul, all for the noble cause.
Nevertheless, celebrating the kindness of humanitarian workers is not enough; in Uganda and beyond, they should be protected, respected, and funded adequately when in the course of their work.
According to the United Nations (UN), humanitarian workers and assets should be protected everywhere, emphasizing that they are not a target to be subjected to affliction.
“Warring sides must allow and facilitate the safe, rapid, and unimpeded delivery of aid to people in need,” the UN stated.
Understanding the importance of sacrifice and service before self, though distressing and painful at times, gives the spirit of humanity its true meaning.
