Theme: “On the Side of Humanity” RCSS and MCB Seychelles Sign MoU on World Red Cross Red Crescent Day
Victoria, 8 May 2025 — In celebration of World Red Cross Red Crescent Day, the Red Cross Society of Seychelles (RCSS) and Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB) Seychelles have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen their ongoing collaboration in key humanitarian areas.
The agreement highlights collaboration in First Aid training, psychosocial support, and blood donation initiatives, formalizing a long-standing partnership built on shared values of community service and resilience.
The signing ceremony, held at the MCB Head Office in Victoria, was attended by staff from both organizations. The MoU was signed by Mr. Désiré Leo, Managing Director of MCB Seychelles, and Ms. Marie-May Esparon, Secretary General of RCSS.
In his address, Mr. Leo emphasized MCB’s commitment to empowering communities: “True resilience is built not only through immediate aid but through preparation, education, and empowerment. We’re proud to partner with the Red Cross to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to navigate future challenges with confidence and strength.”
The partnership comes at a critical moment for RCSS. Following the devastating December 2023 blasts, the RCSS Headquarters in Providence was badly damaged. MCB Seychelles was one of the first partners to step forward and has since pledged SCR 1,000,000 to support repair and reconstruction efforts.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ms. Esparon connected the event to this year’s Red Cross Red Crescent theme, “On the Side of Humanity.”
“To be on the side of humanity means being present for people in their most difficult moments, putting humanity first—regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, or political beliefs. That is the core of who we are.” She added that this message resonates deeply for RCSS in 2025: “Despite operating in a damaged building and under tough conditions, our team has never stopped serving the people of Seychelles. That dedication reflects our humanitarian mission in its purest form.”
Work on the RCSS Headquarters has already begun, thanks to the initial funding from MCB Seychelles. However, more support is needed to complete the renovation and restore a fully functional operational base for the Society.
“We are calling on other partners, businesses, and individuals to join us,” said Ms. Esparon. “Your support can help us rebuild—not just a building, but the capacity to serve.”
RCSS also took this moment to express its heartfelt thanks: “We extend our deepest gratitude to our volunteers, partners, and the people of Seychelles for their continued support and solidarity. Together, we are building a more compassionate and resilient society—one action at a time.”
Speech of Mr. Leo
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed media partners, and distinguished guests,
It is a privilege to stand before you today as we commemorate Red Cross Day, a day that reminds us of the unwavering spirit of humanitarianism and solidarity. At MCB Bank, we believe in the power of community, compassion, and collective action—values that resonate deeply with the mission of the Red Cross.
In the wake of the devastating events of December 7, we recognized the urgent need for support and stood firm in our commitment to assisting those affected. Today, we reaffirm that pledge with a donation of 1 million Seychelles Rupees, dedicated to strengthening the heart of the operation, the Red Cross Building at Providence.
However, our support does not end here. True resilience is built not only through immediate aid but through preparation, education, and empowerment. As we look ahead, we are proud to announce a forthcoming partnership with the Red Cross focused on enhancing resilience among our staff and communities. Through workshops, training programs, and collaborative initiatives, we aim to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to navigate future challenges with confidence and strength.
This partnership embodies the essence of what we stand for—a financial institution with a heart for people, under our Succes Beyond Number strategy. Together, with the Red Cross and our valued partners, we will continue to support, uplift, and build a foundation for a more prepared and resilient Seychelles.
To our media partners, thank you for amplifying these efforts and sharing these crucial stories. Your role in spreading awareness and fostering collective action is invaluable.
Let us stand together, not just today, but every day, in our commitment to humanitarian work, resilience, and community well-being.
Thank you.
