By Charles Katabalwa,
KAMPALA
The Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) has intensified a nationwide crackdown on the misuse of the Red Cross emblem, warning that offenders risk up to seven years in prison.
The warning was issued by URCS National Legal Advisor Alex Luganda during a one-day Humanitarian Diplomacy campaign meeting attended by media practitioners and security personnel in Kampala.
Luganda said the society has launched operations across the country to track down individuals and facilities illegally using the protected emblem.
“The Red Cross emblem is gazetted for URCS. Those using it on personal ambulances and medical facilities are committing a crime,” Luganda said.
He noted that the emblem – a red cross on a white background, is legally reserved for the Red Cross Society and must not be used by unauthorized persons or entities.
Luganda explained that misuse of the emblem not only violates the law but also denies intended beneficiaries access to genuine Red Cross services.
“On many occasions, individuals and small medical facilities have misused the emblem, misleading the public and undermining our humanitarian work,” he added.
He urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid falling victim to impostors using the protected symbol.
At the same event, URCS Public Relations Officer Irene Nakasiita revealed that the society has received numerous complaints from members of the public claiming to have been knocked by Red Cross ambulances and demanding compensation.
“In most cases, investigations show that the vehicles involved are not ours but are using the Red Cross emblem illegally,” Nakasiita said.
She emphasized that URCS is taking firm control of its emblem rights as stipulated under Ugandan law, stressing that no unauthorized person should use the symbol.
“Even security forces in war zones seek permission to use the emblem. No other people should use it,” she said.
Nakasiita added that while some individuals and clinics have complied with URCS directives to remove the emblem, others have refused and will face legal action.
She called on the media to support the campaign by sensitizing the public on the proper use of the Red Cross emblem and exposing those who misuse it.
