The launch event, which took place at the National Museum and House of Culture in Dar es Salaam, brought together stakeholders in humanitarian operations, university students, representatives from civil society, academia, government, the Tanzanian People’s Defence Forces, diplomatic community, local and international organisations, and media.
The Swiss Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Photo Elysée, museum for photography in Lausanne and the International Committee of the Red Cross produced the Dialogues On Humanity exhibition. The photo exhibition illustrates themes and situations we encounter every day, which have a direct or indirect link to the Humanitarian Principles. The photographs aim to give the visitor a better understanding of and a deeper insight into the significance and impact of these Principles - Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality and Independence.
The event featured a panel discussion on the 1949 Geneva Conventions and the importance of the Laws of War today. During the conversation, participants exchanged views on the work of the ICRC and the Red Cross, stressing the importance of the Conventions to protect civilians and other non-combatting individuals during conflicts, and the future of International Humanitarian Law. Speakers included Mr Joseph Masangula, a student at the University of Dar es Salaam School of Law; Ms Joyce Charles Bayachamo, Legal Adviser, International Committee of the Red Cross; Dr Hilary Ngude, Director of Medical Services, Tanzania Red Cross Society; and Major Sebastian Mwakalindile from the Tanzania People’s Defence Force. The discussions were moderated by Ms. Anna Bwana, Country Director at BBC Media Action.
The two-week long exhibition will be open to the public at Nafasi Art Space from 10 to 23 May, Monday - Saturday between 10 am and 5.30 pm. Visitors are invited to critically reflect on the Humanitarian Principles and their significance, and to share their views, thoughts and opinions on the different themes. The exhibition includes a set of images from the ICRC on African traditions and the preservation of humanity during war.
