The Global First Aid Reference Center (GFARC) has been deployed by the French Red Cross (FRC) to support the development of National Societies (NSD) and strengthen first aid services in the workplace. In January 2024, a support mission was sent to the Burundi Red Cross (BRC) in response to a direct request from them to enhance their financial autonomy and commercial first aid services.

Burundi is currently experiencing a rapid growth in construction, manufacturing and processing businesses, which presents a great opportunity to expand first aid services. Despite the financial crisis the country has been facing since 2015, there has been a growing demand for on-the-job training by companies and organizations. The BRC has been
responding to these requests, despite limited resources, by raising awareness and promoting first-aid training in the workplace.

The mission’s objectives were to review business activities, revise the market study, relaunch discussions with government authorities, analyze and make recommendations for the economic and financial model, and develop a clear marketing strategy.

The GFARC Commercial First Aid delegate’s mission with the Burundi Red Cross is an important step in realizing the French Red Cross’s Vision 2030. It demonstrates a commitment to the health and safety of Burundian workers, as well as the promotion of humanitarian values in the region.