Water Emergency Rescue Training in Kulhudhuffushi City: Strengthening Preparedness and Response Capacity in the Maldives

The Maldivian Red Crescent (MRC) has successfully completed its first-ever Water Emergency Rescue Training in partnership with the Red Cross Society of China (RCSC). Held in Kulhudhuffushi City from October 21 to 25, 2024, this training was part of RCSC’s "Water Rescue Training for Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in the South Asia Region" project, aimed at enhancing regional water rescue capabilities.

The training includes participants from MRC units in Kulhudhuffushi, Male’, and Kolhufushi. In addition, staff members from the National Disaster Management Authority, Maldives Police Service, and the National College of Policing and Law Enforcement also joined the program.

Consisting of both theory and hands-on practical exercises, this training covered essential techniques for operating and managing inflatable rescue boats (IRBs) as well as life-saving procedures. This comprehensive training ensures that participants are better equipped to respond swiftly and effectively to water-related emergencies.

The RCSC donated two inflatable rescue boats and 12 sets of personal protective equipment (PPE) to the MRC upon the training's completion. Each PPE set includes essential safety gear: personal flotation devices, rescue ropes, shoes, gloves, and helmets.

A ceremony held on October 25 in Kulhudhuffushi marked the successful completion of the training and the formal handover of the equipment. Representing the RCSC, Vice President and Secretary General Mr. Li Lidong officially transferred the IRBs and PPEs to Mr. Ahmed Shabin, the MRC’s Second Vice President. Distinguished guests at the event included Her Excellency Ms. Wang Lixin, Ambassador of China to the Maldives, and the Mayor of Kulhudhuffushi City, who joined in distributing certificates to the participants alongside the leadership of both National Societies.

In their remarks, Ambassador Wang Lixin, RCSC’s Mr. Li Lidong, and MRC’s Mr. Ahmed Shabin highlighted the significance of this collaboration in building resilience against water-related disasters. This milestone training marks a valuable step in strengthening the MRC’s preparedness and response capacity in partnership with movement partners.