The role of the red cross in promoting social change and community development in Kpayama Section, Kenema City, Sierra Leone

Abstract

This study examined the role of the Sierra Leone Red Cross Society (SLRCS) in promoting social change and community development in Kpayama Section, Kenema City, Sierra Leone. The study was motivated by the growing recognition of humanitarian organisations as important actors in community resilience, health promotion, disaster preparedness and sustainable development, alongside the limited locality-specific evidence on their long-term developmental contribution. A descriptive survey research design using a mixed-methods approach was adopted. The target population comprised Red Cross officials, volunteers, community leaders and community beneficiaries, while a sample of 60 respondents was purposively selected from these stakeholder groups. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, observations and document review. Quantitative data were analysed using frequencies and percentages, while qualitative information was analysed thematically. The findings showed that Red Cross interventions contributed to social change and community development mainly through health education and disease prevention, emergency relief and disaster response, first aid services, community sanitation, youth empowerment and support to vulnerable groups. Respondents also identified inadequate funding, poor transportation, limited community awareness, inadequate staff and volunteers, and communication difficulties as constraints on programme implementation. The study further showed strong support for strengthening Red Cross activities through increased community outreach, expansion of services to hard-to-reach areas, targeted programmes for vulnerable groups and stronger partnerships with local leaders and organisations. The study concludes that the Red Cross plays an important humanitarian and developmental role in Kpayama Section, but the sustainability of its contribution depends on adequate resources, stronger community participation, effective partnerships and improved programme accessibility.