In late May 2024, an important training program took place in Djibouti, organized by the Djibouti Red Crescent and led by master educators from the Global First Aid Reference Center (GFARC). The program aimed to strengthen first aid training across the country.

The initiative’s objectives included enhancing Djibouti Red Crescent’s capacity-building efforts, developing its commercial activities, and reinforcing its role as a Civil Protection actor. GFARC’s objectives were to assist Djibouti Red Crescent in rolling out first aid training programs aimed primarily at the general public, Djibouti Red Crescent volunteers, and businesses, while identifying key areas to strengthen its role in the country’s first aid landscape.

As part of this initiative, several key activities were implemented:

Comprehensive Needs Assessment: A thorough evaluation was conducted of Djibouti’s current landscape for first aid training and disaster risk management practices. This involved consultations with key stakeholders such as the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Interior, SMUR, firefighters, private sector entities, and educational institutions. These findings helped identify gaps and opportunities for improving first aid education and disaster preparedness.

Training of Trainers (ToT) Program: The cornerstone of the initiative was a Training of Trainers program held from May 24 to May 30, 2024, at the Salaam Tower in Djibouti City. Led by two GFARC master educators, Hélène Perret and Grégory Jouvion, the program aimed to equip ten participants from various cities across Djibouti with advanced skills in first aid instruction. Participants engaged in intensive sessions focused on the latest international standards and instructional methodologies recommended by the IFRC.

The initiative also received valuable material support from the French Red Cross, including two new training mannequins and two defibrillators with training electrodes. This initiative represented a significant stride towards standardized and improved first aid training in Djibouti.

Congratulations to the Djibouti Red Crescent team, GFARC trainers, IFRC, and all participants for their dedication and hard work!