The five-year-old Syrian refugee girl, “Sama,” living with her family in Lebanon, could never have imagined what fate had in store for her. She became one of the victims of the Beirut Port explosion, which recently shook the Lebanese capital.

While Sama was playing innocently within the modest walls of her home, the explosion occurred instantly. Shards of glass from the windows shattered, embedding themselves in her left eye, leaving her blind in that eye.

The innocent child endured days and nights of unbearable pain while her family was haunted by fear of an uncertain future, knowing that she would face lifelong facial disfigurement. Relief finally came when hope arrived from the UAE, carried by the Emirates Red Crescent. Sama was included in an initiative launched by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, and Honorary President of the Emirates Red Crescent “Mother of the Nation”—the initiative aimed to provide treatment and rehabilitation for those injured in the Beirut explosion.

Sama underwent reconstructive surgery, had a prosthetic eye fitted, and the disfigurements caused by the explosion were corrected. Today, Sama can live normally among her peers, free from feelings of inferiority or shame due to losing one eye. She has reintegrated into society without fear or embarrassment. Gratefulness fills the hearts of Sama and her family, who continuously thank God, the UAE, and Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak for her generous care and for covering the cost of Sama’s treatment. This compassion has allowed her to embrace life again and regain vitality and energy.

Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, and Honorary President of the Emirates Red Crescent “Mother of the Nation,” has directed the Emirates Red Crescent to implement an initiative to empower Syrian refugee women in the Mrajeeb Al Fhood camp in Jordan. The initiative aims to enhance their capabilities, enabling them to secure a dignified life for themselves and their families. This effort is part of the “Sheikha Fatima Fund for Refugee Women,” established through Her Highness’s generous initiative to finance projects that improve services for refugee women and enhance their humanitarian, economic, and living conditions.

The initiative, launched with Emirati Women’s Day on August 28, includes several components designed to achieve its humanitarian and developmental objectives. Among these is involving refugee women in the Mrajeeb Al Fhood camp to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and limit its spread within the camp. This will be achieved by producing protective items such as face masks, a primary preventive measure. The women will manufacture 20,000 masks at the “Umna Fatima Workshop,” established in the camp to train women in sewing and tailoring, helping them secure a stable income. The camp administration will provide raw materials like fabric, and the proceeds from these products will go directly to the refugee women.

Her Excellency Dr. Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi, Minister of State, emphasized that the “Sheikha Fatima Fund for Refugee Women,” established by Her Highness, strengthens her continuous efforts to economically and socially empower refugee women. The fund helps improve their living standards by providing them with production tools they can manage, enabling them to generate a steady income to meet their personal and family needs.
Dr. Al Shamsi noted that Her Highness’s vision has brought about a qualitative shift in programs and projects targeting women in troubled communities, garnering widespread global praise from humanitarian organizations concerned with women and children. She added that Her Highness’s initiatives have positioned her among the leading supporters of refugees, advocating for their humanitarian causes and enhancing their capabilities.
She highlighted that Her Highness profoundly understands the challenges faced by women in refugee camps and their struggles under harsh conditions. Therefore, she has worked through numerous programs and initiatives to empower them, help them overcome difficulties, and protect them from potential risks posed by their temporary circumstances.

Dr. Al Shamsi stated that implementing the refugee women’s empowerment initiative in the Jordanian camp during Emirati Women’s Day reflects the solidarity of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak and Emirati women with their refugee sisters, sharing in their hardships caused by the difficult conditions of displacement.
She added, “Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak’s efforts for refugee and marginalized women have drawn attention to their suffering and attracted support to address their situations in many conflict zones. These efforts have contributed to implementing projects that have improved women’s educational and professional levels and enhanced their economic, health, and psychological conditions.” She referred to the Sheikha Fatima Fund for Refugee Women, which provides specialized projects tailored to women’s needs during displacement and supports their stability and resettlement after crises and disasters.

Dr. Mohammed Ateeq Al Falahi, Secretary-General of the Emirates Red Crescent, praised the humanitarian leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. He described her as a symbol of boundless humanitarian generosity within the UAE and as a prominent figure in the global humanitarian landscape. He highlighted her pivotal role in addressing fundamental humanitarian issues, particularly empowering women and children affected by wars, conflicts, and crises. He added that Her Highness’s initiatives have significantly elevated the care and attention given to these vulnerable groups.
He also noted that the Emirates Red Crescent, under the chairmanship of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Representative of the Ruler in the Al Dhafra Region, prioritizes capacity-building projects and sustainable initiatives for victims of crises and disasters. These projects are viewed as innovative solutions to meet the increasing demands of humanitarian work due to ongoing events and their civilian casualties. He affirmed that His Highness Sheikh Hamdan consistently directs the adoption of impactful projects that quickly improve lives and alleviate human suffering.

The Secretary-General of the Emirates Red Crescent highlighted that the organization has developed comprehensive plans to ensure the success of the Syrian refugee women’s empowerment project in the Mrajeeb Al Fhood camp, aligning it with the celebration of Emirati Women’s Day. He emphasized that the initiative represents a qualitative shift in services provided to refugees in the camp, offering an innovative and pioneering solution to enhance their capacities by equipping them with production tools that help ease their lives and improve their economic and social conditions.

Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, and Honorary President of the Emirates Red Crescent “Mother of the Nation,” directed the Refugee Women and Children Support Fund to provide funding of $1 million to implement projects aimed at empowering South Sudanese refugees in Uganda. This initiative reflects Her Highness’s dedication to assisting refugee women and their families and enhancing their capabilities to secure a dignified life.

The Emirates Red Crescent, in collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), successfully implemented these projects, benefiting more than 45,000 individuals, 60% of whom were women. The projects focused on agriculture and livestock development.

In the livestock sector, the projects included purchasing and raising animals, as well as disease prevention and treatment. With a budget of $86,000, they benefitted 186 individuals.

In agriculture, $319,914 was allocated to purchase vegetable seeds and train farmers in innovative agricultural production techniques, benefiting 24,000 farmers. Additionally, $98,800 was used to buy harvest equipment, benefiting 980 individuals.

Another focus was income-generating activities, with $249,286 allocated to support such initiatives, benefiting 10,788 people. Furthermore, $246,000 provided work skills training, benefiting more than 10,000 refugees.

Her Excellency Dr. Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi, Minister of State, highlighted that the Refugee Women and Children Support Fund, established under the generous initiative of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, strengthens her continuous efforts to economically and socially empower refugee women. The fund aims to improve their living standards by equipping them with production tools they can manage, providing a steady income to support their personal and family needs.

Dr. Al Shamsi noted that Her Highness’s vision has brought a qualitative shift to programs and projects targeting women in troubled communities. Her initiatives have earned widespread recognition from humanitarian organizations concerned with women and children, regionally and globally. She emphasized that Her Highness’s initiatives have placed her among the leading supporters and advocates of refugees, enhancing their capacities and supporting their humanitarian causes.

Dr. Al Shamsi further highlighted that Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak profoundly understands the challenges women face in refugee camps and their struggles under harsh displacement conditions. Through various programs and initiatives, Her Highness has worked to empower them to overcome these difficulties and protect them from risks associated with their temporary circumstances.

She added that Her Highness’s efforts have drawn attention to the plight of marginalized women, attracting support to address their conditions in numerous conflict areas. These efforts have led to implementing projects that have improved women’s educational and professional levels and enhanced their economic, health, and psychological conditions. The Refugee Women and Children Support Fund provides specialized projects tailored to women’s needs during displacement and according to their stability and resettlement requirements after crises and disasters.

Dr. Mohammed Ateeq Al Falahi, Secretary-General of the Emirates Red Crescent, praised Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak’s genuine humanitarian efforts. He described her as a symbol of boundless humanitarian generosity within the UAE and globally. He highlighted her pioneering role in addressing essential humanitarian issues, particularly in enhancing the capacities of women and children affected by wars, conflicts, and disasters. He stated that Her Highness’s initiatives have significantly impacted the level of care and support provided to these vulnerable groups.

Dr. Al Falahi emphasized that the Emirates Red Crescent, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Representative of the Ruler in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Red Crescent, prioritizes capacity-building projects and sustainable initiatives for victims of crises and disasters. These projects are seen as innovative solutions to meet the growing demands of humanitarian work, given the increasing number of civilian casualties caused by successive events. His Highness consistently directs the adoption of impactful projects that quickly improve lives and alleviate human suffering.

The Secretary-General also noted that the Emirates Red Crescent, in collaboration with the UNHCR, carefully planned and implemented projects to support South Sudanese refugees in Uganda. These projects were designed to meet the refugees’ needs, especially women, and align with the UAE’s leadership’s vision of providing better living conditions for the beneficiaries in Uganda.

Dr. Al Falahi emphasized that these projects significantly shift the services provided to displaced and refugee populations. They offer an innovative and pioneering solution to enhance refugees’ capabilities by equipping them with production tools that help ease their lives and meet their food needs.

He added, “The Uganda projects have achieved significant gains for South Sudanese refugee women, providing them with better living conditions and greater care within their temporary communities.”

The Emirates Red Crescent and UNHCR signed a cooperation agreement two years ago to enhance the capacities of South Sudanese refugees in Uganda. Both sides worked together to bring these projects to life, creating a vital source of steady income for the refugees, helping them manage their lives during their displacement, and contributing to boosting Uganda’s economy, which hosts many refugees.

His Excellency Dr. Hamdan Musallam Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Emirates Red Crescent Authority, and Filippo Grandi, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, discussed ways to enhance the programs of the “Refugee Women and Children Support Fund.” The fund was established under the generous initiative of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, and Honorary President of the Emirates Red Crescent, to improve the lives of refugee women and strengthen their ability to cope with the harsh conditions of displacement.

The meeting, held in Dubai with the attendance of several officials from both sides, focused on strengthening the humanitarian partnership between the Emirates Red Crescent and UNHCR. They explored mechanisms to activate the fund’s programs through new projects aimed at improving the lives of refugee women and alleviating their suffering, as well as mobilizing support for the fund’s developmental initiatives in fragile areas.

Dr. Al Mazrouei highlighted the Refugee Women and Children Support Fund as a pioneering initiative that aligns with the UAE’s efforts, under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to alleviate the suffering of refugees worldwide. He emphasized the additional support provided by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, with close follow-up by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Representative of the Ruler in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Red Crescent.

Dr. Al Mazrouei pointed out that when Her Highness Sheikha Fatima established the fund in 2000, she was fully aware of the plight of displaced and refugee women in camps and conflict zones and the hardships and risks they face as the most vulnerable group. He added, “Her Highness has adopted many initiatives that have supported refugee women and provided them with better living conditions.” He referred to the fund’s significant role in offering more excellent care, better protection, and dignified life for women and children in and outside camps.

He also praised Her Highness’s generous $1 million donation recently to the fund, which enabled refugee women from South Sudan in Uganda to access empowerment projects in collaboration with UNHCR. He underscored that such initiatives reflect the UAE’s consistent commitment to easing the burdens of displacement for victims of conflicts and wars.

Filippo Grandi commended the generous contributions of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, recognizing her as a leading supporter of refugee issues globally and a key backer of UNHCR’s efforts to alleviate refugee suffering and improve their living conditions. He praised her groundbreaking initiative in establishing the Refugee Women and Children Support Fund, highlighting its significant role in providing better care and dignified living for women and children affected by crises and disasters.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed expanding the fund’s beneficiary base by attracting additional support. They also explored opportunities to collaborate on new humanitarian programs and projects that address refugee needs, strengthen their resilience, and mitigate their vulnerabilities. Successful partnership experiences between the two sides were also reviewed, particularly in host countries for refugees.

Last week, the Emirates Red Crescent and UNHCR signed an agreement in Abu Dhabi to implement the “South Sudanese Refugee Assistance in Uganda” project, funded with $1 million from the Refugee Women and Children Support Fund. The project will provide South Sudanese refugees in Uganda with opportunities to engage in agricultural and livestock production projects. It is expected to benefit 41,660 refugees, with women representing 60% of the beneficiaries.

The project includes the provision of seeds, tools, irrigation systems, and other agricultural inputs, as well as support for harvesting and marketing products. For livestock, targeted families will receive cattle training on modern farming and livestock production technologies, disease prevention, and commercial and income-generating activities.

Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, and Honorary President of the Emirates Red Crescent, has provided an additional $1 million in support to the Refugee Women Support Fund. This contribution aligns with Her Highness’s commitment to humanitarian and charitable work and alleviating the suffering of the needy and affected, particularly refugee women and children worldwide.

This support, coinciding with Mother’s Day, aims to expand services for refugee women, highlighting compassion and solidarity with all women and mothers who have endured and sacrificed to protect their children and ensure their dignity.

Her Highness emphasized that the UAE’s initiatives, under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE; the support of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai; and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, along with the follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Representative of the Ruler in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Red Crescent, strengthen efforts to improve the stability of displaced persons and facilitate the voluntary return of millions of refugees worldwide. These initiatives help restore their vitality and reintegrate them into their original communities after enduring prolonged hardships.

Her Highness stated, “The UAE has always taken it upon itself to address refugee issues by mobilizing all its resources to provide protection and assistance to refugees and displaced persons worldwide, alleviating their suffering and improving their living conditions.”

She added, “The exceptional hardships faced by refugees necessitate enhanced partnerships among humanitarian organizations to improve their situation and draw attention to their urgent needs. The UAE’s contributions to refugees reflect a message of generosity, love, and brotherhood among peoples, as established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may he rest in peace.”

Her Highness expressed her hope that the Refugee Women Support Fund would achieve more for refugee women worldwide, providing them with better living conditions and greater care to protect them from the consequences of disasters, crises, and wars, as they are the most affected.

She also praised UNHCR’s vital role in providing care and protection for millions of displaced persons and refugees across dozens of countries worldwide. Her Highness emphasized the fund’s strong partnership with UNHCR, aiming to elevate their collaboration to broader horizons that would better serve refugee women and enhance programs directed toward them.

Her Highness directed that the donated amount be allocated to supporting mothers in marginalized areas, improving their humanitarian conditions through projects addressing their care needs, and empowering them to access essential services for themselves and their families.

On Mother’s Day, Her Highness urged the international community to fulfill its humanitarian responsibilities toward refugee women facing extremely difficult circumstances. She stressed the need for collective efforts to provide greater protection for women affected by the harsh conditions of displacement.

Her Excellency Dr. Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi, Minister of State, highlighted Her Highness Sheikha Fatima’s significant role in strengthening humanitarian solidarity through her generous contributions to crisis and disaster victims worldwide. Dr. Al Shamsi noted that the additional donation to the Refugee Women Support Fund on Mother’s Day reaffirms Her Highness’s dedication to improving mothers’ lives globally.

She also praised Her Highness’s initiatives, which reflect the UAE’s commitment to providing humanitarian assistance, improving refugee conditions, and creating sustainable opportunities for the most vulnerable women and children, thereby enhancing their living standards and restoring their dignity.

Dr. Mohammed Ateeq Al Falahi, Secretary-General of the Emirates Red Crescent, confirmed the organization’s ambitious plan to utilize Her Highness’s donation for Mother’s Day to implement developmental projects that improve the lives of mothers in the most vulnerable and underserved areas. He noted that Her Highness’s initiatives have brought significant positive changes in services directed toward victims in conflict zones, earning her widespread recognition from the international community and humanitarian organizations.

Khaled Khalifa, Regional Representative of UNHCR for the Gulf Cooperation Council, commended Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak’s humanitarian initiatives, which significantly alleviate refugee suffering and support UNHCR’s efforts to enhance care and preserve human dignity. He emphasized that the Refugee Women Support Fund exemplifies Her Highness’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by refugee women.

The Refugee Women Support Fund, established by Her Highness on March 21, 2000, on Mother’s Day, continues to provide tangible and meaningful assistance to refugee women, ensuring they and their children have access to dignified living conditions. The fund is jointly managed by the Emirates Red Crescent and UNHCR, with the Red Crescent overseeing administrative and financial aspects and UNHCR identifying appropriate projects to meet refugee women’s specific needs.

The Emirates Red Crescent has begun constructing the “Sheikha Fatima Maternity and Childhood Hospital” in Mauritania’s capital, Nouakchott, at an estimated cost of approximately AED 2 million. The funds have been allocated from the “Refugee Women’s Support Fund,” established through the generous initiative of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, and Honorary President of the Red Crescent.

The fund aims to improve the lives of refugee women in camps and beyond, serve mothers in marginalized areas, and enhance their humanitarian conditions by implementing projects that address their needs for care and support, empowering them to access essential services for themselves and their families.

The Red Crescent has completed preparations to begin the project, which will provide healthcare to mothers and newborns. The two-story hospital will feature various medical facilities, including operating rooms, anesthetics and sterilization units, an emergency reception center, and wards with a capacity of 20 beds. It is expected to handle 50 cases daily, significantly reducing the relatively high mortality rates among newborns and pregnant women in Mauritania.

Her Excellency Dr. Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi, Minister of State, emphasized that Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak’s initiatives in motherhood and childhood provide essential care for mothers and children in regions that lack such vital services.

She stated that Her Highness continuously monitors the conditions of marginalized women and children affected by crises and disasters worldwide. She consistently directs efforts to address their challenges by adopting developmental programs and projects that enhance their capabilities and improve their living conditions.

Dr. Al Shamsi highlighted that these initiatives support global efforts to reduce women’s and children’s suffering, offering innovative solutions for better living conditions. She noted the international recognition of Her Highness’s support for women and children, especially as they represent the most vulnerable segments during crises and disasters.

She also affirmed that the “Sheikha Fatima Maternity and Childhood Hospital” in Mauritania would significantly improve healthcare for Mauritanian women, thus reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates.

Dr. Mohammed Ateeq Al Falahi, Secretary-General of the Emirates Red Crescent, noted that Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak’s initiatives through the Red Crescent enhance the organization’s ability to undertake projects that serve development and reconstruction in countries facing severe humanitarian and developmental challenges. These initiatives alleviate poverty and need.

He added that Her Highness has always been a steadfast supporter of the Red Crescent’s humanitarian efforts, underscoring her commitment to instilling values of altruism and competition within society to aid others.

Dr. Al Falahi reaffirmed the Red Crescent’s commitment to ensuring the hospital in Mauritania leaves a direct and sustainable impact on improving mothers’ lives. He stressed the importance of completing the project swiftly to achieve its health and humanitarian objectives.

It is worth noting that the humanitarian conditions in Mauritania over recent years have worsened due to periods of drought, significantly affecting women, children, refugees from neighboring countries, and internally displaced people.

Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, and Honorary President of the Emirates Red Crescent, has provided additional support of $1 million to the Refugee Women Support Fund. This contribution aims to create empowerment opportunities for refugee women, reflecting Her Highness’s commitment to humanitarian and charitable work and alleviating the suffering of those in need worldwide, particularly women and children refugees.

The fund was established in 2000 through Her Highness’s generous initiative in collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

Her Highness praised the role of the UAE’s wise leadership, represented by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai; and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, with the follow-up of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Representative of the Ruler in the Al Dhafra Region and Chairman of the Emirates Red Crescent, in advancing humanitarian and charitable efforts.

Her Highness highlighted the importance of improving refugee stability, meeting their basic needs, and helping them overcome challenges. She emphasized that addressing refugee issues is a core principle of the UAE’s humanitarian approach, with the nation consistently working to provide urgent and essential aid to improve the living conditions of refugees in various regions.

Her Highness stated, “The hardships faced by refugees due to their exceptional circumstances require enhanced partnerships between humanitarian organizations to improve their situation and draw attention to their urgent needs. The UAE’s efforts for refugees reflect a message of generosity, love, and fraternity among peoples, as established by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may he rest in peace.”

She expressed hope that the Refugee Women Support Fund would continue to achieve more for refugee women globally, providing opportunities to improve their lives through empowerment and utilizing their educational and professional skills.

Her Highness also acknowledged the critical role of UNHCR in providing care and protection for millions of displaced people and refugees in many countries worldwide. She reaffirmed the strong partnership between the fund and UNHCR, striving to expand cooperation to serve refugee women’s causes and enhance targeted programs.

In this context, Her Highness directed the signing of an agreement between the Emirates Red Crescent and UNHCR to implement the “South Sudanese Refugee Assistance in Uganda” project, funded by a $1 million grant from the Refugee Women Support Fund. This project aims to economically empower refugees, preserve their dignity, and encourage them to utilize and develop their skills, turning them into productive human resources capable of facing life with resilience.

Under the agreement, which was signed at the Emirates Red Crescent headquarters, the project will launch initiatives enabling South Sudanese refugees in Uganda to engage in agricultural and livestock production. It is expected to benefit 41,660 refugees, with women comprising 60% of the beneficiaries.

Dr. Mohammed Ateeq Al Falahi, Secretary-General of the Emirates Red Crescent, signed the agreement on behalf of the organization, while Khaled Khalifa, Regional Representative of UNHCR for the Gulf Cooperation Council, signed on behalf of the international body.

Her Excellency Dr. Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi, Minister of State, emphasized that the Refugee Women Support Fund, established through Her Highness Sheikha Fatima’s initiative, aims to alleviate the suffering of refugee women and provide them with a dignified life. She noted that signing this agreement strengthens Her Highness’s ongoing efforts to economically and socially empower refugee women, improving their living standards through projects that enable them to manage production resources and generate stable incomes.

Dr. Al Shamsi noted that Her Highness’s vision has brought a transformative change to programs and projects targeting women in fragile communities, earning widespread praise from humanitarian organizations focused on women and children regionally and globally. These efforts have raised awareness about refugee women’s hardships and attracted support to improve their situations.

Khaled Khalifa praised Her Highness Sheikha Fatima’s pioneering role in supporting refugees, expressing UNHCR’s appreciation for her contributions to refugee programs and operations worldwide. He described Her Highness as a steadfast supporter of UNHCR and an advocate for empowering refugees, noting that the partnership with the Emirates Red Crescent reflects a shared commitment to sustainable development and relief programs.

He added, “We are confident that this agreement will enhance the coordination and efficiency of the efforts by the Emirates Red Crescent and UNHCR to alleviate the plight of South Sudanese refugees in Uganda.” He emphasized that this project, which includes agricultural and livestock production, training in modern techniques, and commercial skills development, will significantly impact refugee livelihoods and local economies in host countries.

The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) has implemented the third phase of the “My Profession, My Craft” project as part of the “Mother of the Nation” initiatives in Yemen, under the directives of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Honorary Chairwoman of the Emirates Red Crescent. The initiative aims to enhance essential services for those affected by the events in Yemen.

The third phase of the project focuses on empowering Yemeni women in the city of Inma, Aden Governorate, by supporting them in establishing home-based women’s tailoring workshops. This will provide a stable source of income to help them and their families cope with challenging living conditions.

The project also aims to utilize the products of these tailoring workshops, such as women’s clothing, to benefit displaced women in various Yemeni governorates. This dual-purpose approach adds value by improving the economic conditions of women and their families in rural Yemen while addressing the clothing needs of displaced families.

The ERC has provided the beneficiaries with sewing materials and tools, including fabrics and other essentials. According to the ERC’s plan, the project is designed to become self-sustaining.

In February, the ERC launched the first phase of the “My Profession, My Craft” project, the ninth initiative under the “Mother of the Nation” program in Yemen, in several districts of Lahij Governorate. The second phase, implemented last April, focused on enhancing the capabilities of rural women in Al-Madhariba and Ras Al-Ara districts in Lahij Governorate.

In a press statement, the ERC emphasized that the projects initiated by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak are progressing efficiently. These projects were carefully studied to address the vital needs of the Yemeni community across various critical sectors.

The ERC stated that improving the lives of women and their families in Yemen is a priority due to the challenging circumstances they face, as women are among the most affected by the current crisis. The ERC highlighted Her Highness Sheikha Fatima’s continued efforts to empower displaced and refugee women, underscoring the significant role of the Refugee Women and Child Support Fund, which she established years ago to improve the lives of women and children in refugee camps and unstable regions.

Beneficiaries of the project expressed their gratitude and appreciation to Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak for her initiative to alleviate their suffering and improve their economic and social conditions. They affirmed that the initiative provides them with a stable source of income to face life’s difficulties. They also thanked the Emirates Red Crescent for completing the project promptly and selecting Lahij Governorate for its launch.

It is worth noting that Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak’s initiatives in Yemen have supported 15 projects in Aden, Lahij, and neighboring governorates. These initiatives address critical areas such as healthcare, education, women’s empowerment, rehabilitation for individuals with disabilities, and improvements in water, electricity, housing, and family stability programs, particularly for nomadic populations in coastal areas.

The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) has implemented the second phase of the “My Profession, My Craft” project as part of the “Mother of the Nation” initiatives in Yemen. This effort is in line with the directives of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Honorary Chairwoman of the Emirates Red Crescent, to improve essential services for those affected by the ongoing events in Yemen.

The second phase of the project focuses on empowering rural women in the Al-Madhariba and Ras Al-Ara districts in the Lahij Governorate. It aims to assist women in establishing home-based women’s tailoring workshops to create a stable source of income, helping them and their families navigate challenging living conditions.

The project also seeks to utilize the products of these tailoring workshops, such as women’s clothing, to support displaced women across various Yemeni governorates. This dual-purpose initiative enhances the economic conditions of women and their families in rural areas while addressing the clothing needs of displaced families.

The ERC provided the beneficiaries with sewing materials and tools, including fabrics and other essentials. According to the ERC’s plan, the project is designed to become self-sustaining.

In February, the ERC launched the first phase of the “My Profession, My Craft” project, the ninth initiative under the “Mother of the Nation” program in Yemen, in several districts of Lahij Governorate.

In a press statement, the ERC confirmed that the projects initiated by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak are progressing efficiently. These projects were carefully studied to address the vital needs of the Yemeni community across key sectors.

The ERC emphasized that improving the lives of women and their families in Yemen is a priority due to the challenges they face, as women are among the most affected by the current crisis. The ERC highlighted that Her Highness Sheikha Fatima’s attention to this segment of women reflects her ongoing efforts to enhance the capacities of displaced and refugee women worldwide. In this regard, the Refugee Women and Child Support Fund, established by Her Highness several years ago, is crucial in improving women’s and children’s lives in refugee camps and unstable regions.

Several beneficiaries of the project expressed their gratitude and appreciation to Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak for her initiative to alleviate their suffering and improve their economic and social conditions. They confirmed that the initiative provides them with a stable source of income to face life’s challenges. They also thanked the ERC for completing the project promptly and selecting the Lahij Governorate as the starting point.

It is worth noting that Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak’s initiatives in Yemen include support for 15 projects in Aden, Lahij, and neighboring governorates. These initiatives cover critical areas such as healthcare, education, women’s empowerment, rehabilitation for individuals with disabilities, and improvements in water, electricity, housing, and family stability programs, especially for nomadic populations in coastal areas.

The Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) has carried out the eighth project of the “Mother of the Nation” initiatives in Yemen, which involved providing water to several Yemeni villages lacking this vital resource. Additionally, the ERC launched the first phase of the ninth project, *”My Profession, My Craft,”* in Aden, aimed at enhancing the capacities of Yemeni women. These efforts align with the directives of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Honorary Chairwoman of the Emirates Red Crescent, to improve essential services for those affected by the events in Yemen.

The water provision project targeted several Yemeni villages suffering from a severe lack of water resources. The initiative began in the towns of Qawa and Mashhoor in southern Yemen, where the shortage of clean water is particularly dire. The project involved drilling wells, installing solar-powered pumps, and extending water networks to these villages. Thousands of families who previously faced significant challenges accessing clean water now benefit from this initiative.

The project will expand to other villages following the ERC’s plan. The organization is working swiftly across Yemen to alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people and restore normalcy to their lives. The ERC has focused on ensuring the sustainability of these projects by using alternative energy sources, such as solar panels, to minimize operational costs.

The ninth project, “My Profession, My Craft,” aims to empower Yemeni women and girls by providing them with women’s tailoring workshops. This initiative helps them establish a stable source of income to support themselves and their families as they face life’s challenges.

In its first phase, the project benefits 300 women and girls in rural areas of Lahij Governorate. The products from these tailoring workshops, such as women’s clothing, will be used to support displaced women in various Yemeni governorates. The ERC has provided the beneficiaries with sewing machines, fabrics, and other materials. According to the ERC’s plan, the project will become self-sustaining within six months of operation and production.

In a press statement, the ERC emphasized that the projects directed by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak are progressing efficiently. These projects were carefully studied to address the critical needs of the Yemeni community across vital sectors. The ERC stressed that improving the lives of women and their families in Yemen is a priority, as women are among the most affected by the current crisis.

The ERC highlighted Her Highness Sheikha Fatima’s continuous efforts to empower displaced and refugee women worldwide. The Refugee Women and Child Support Fund, established by Her Highness years ago, has played a pivotal role in improving the lives of women and children in refugee camps and unstable regions.

The ERC stated that the first phase of this vital project is only the beginning, with plans to extend it to other governorates as per the ERC’s strategy. The organization remains committed to ensuring its projects’ sustainability and operational viability for the beneficiaries.

Several beneficiaries of the project expressed their gratitude and appreciation to Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak for her initiative to alleviate their suffering and improve their economic and social conditions. They affirmed that the initiative provides them with a stable source of income to help them face life’s challenges.

Residents of the villages benefiting from the water project also expressed their gratitude. They noted that Her Highness Sheikha Fatima’s initiative had resolved their longstanding water scarcity issues, bringing water networks to areas that had been excluded for years. They thanked the ERC for completing the water project swiftly, ensuring access to one of life’s most critical resources for thousands of residents in southern Yemeni governorates.

It is noteworthy that Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak’s initiatives in Yemen have supported 15 projects across Aden and neighboring governorates. These initiatives span various essential sectors, including healthcare, education, women’s empowerment, rehabilitation for individuals with disabilities, and improvements in water, electricity, housing, and family stability, particularly for nomadic communities in coastal areas.