Travelling to Sucre, Guanta, Venezuela, November 2024

In November 2024, I travelled to Sucre State with colleagues from the German Embassy and the German Red Cross to gain a deeper understanding of the humanitarian work carried out by the Venezuelan Red Cross in the region. The trip provided a firsthand look at the health, education, nutrition, and disaster preparedness programmes supported by humanitarian organisations.

The Journey to Cumaná – Experiencing Northern Venezuela

We travelled by car to Cumaná, passing through several towns and cities, each offering a glimpse into the diverse landscapes and cultural richness of northern Venezuela. Our route took us through:
• Petare – A vibrant yet densely populated area on the outskirts of Caracas, known for its contrasts between urban challenges and community resilience.
• El Guapo – A small town surrounded by lush greenery, offering a sense of the rural beauty of Venezuela.
• Capital Manuel Ezequiel Bruzual – Here, we stopped for lunch, enjoying a moment to take in the surroundings.
• Barcelona, Puerto la Cruz, and Guanta – This stretch of the journey showcased coastal landscapes, bustling port towns, and urban life, giving us a better sense of regional dynamics.

The long drive to Cumaná was a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of Venezuela, from mountains and rivers to coastal plains, making the journey as rewarding as the mission itself.

Cumaná – Witnessing Humanitarian Efforts on the Ground

Cumaná, the oldest European-founded city in South America, was our destination. Here, we visited several Venezuelan Red Cross programmes, focusing on:
• Health services – Supporting vulnerable communities with medical care, vaccinations, and maternal health.
• Education initiatives – Providing access to learning opportunities for children affected by economic hardship.
• Nutrition and food security projects – Addressing malnutrition and improving access to nutritious meals.
• Disaster preparedness efforts – Strengthening local response capacity in communities prone to climate-related emergencies.

Post-Hurricane Beryl Response

One of the key focuses of the mission was to assess the response to Hurricane Beryl, which had recently impacted Sucre and other coastal areas. The visit highlighted:
• Emergency relief efforts in affected communities.
• Restoration of infrastructure in schools and health centres.
• Community resilience programmes to prepare for future disasters.

The dedication and professionalism of the Venezuelan Red Cross teams were truly inspiring. Despite limited resources, their commitment to serving vulnerable populations was evident in every project we visited.

Returning to Caracas – Reflecting on the Mission

After three insightful days in Sucre, I returned to Caracas by plane, grateful for the opportunity to witness the impact of humanitarian work firsthand.

Click here to access the album.