General Network For Government Communication Explores Community Initiatives Supporting Dubai's Social Agenda

The General Network for Government Communication (GNGC) recently held its quarterly meeting at Al Khawaneej Majlis. The gathering brought together senior communication leaders from Dubai's government entities. The focus was on national initiatives supporting the Year of Community 2025 and the Dubai Social Agenda 33.

Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority, highlighted the need for collaboration among government communication teams. She stated, "Aligning messages and sharing expertise enhances the effectiveness of communication campaigns and maximises their impact. By adopting innovative tools and platforms, Dubai’s entities can foster meaningful engagement with the whole community and support the success of the Year of Community."

Mira Al Siri, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications at the Community Development Authority in Dubai, discussed strategies to engage various community groups. These include senior citizens, people of determination, youth, and low-income individuals. She said, "The Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum Family Programme reflects our commitment to strengthening the role of the family as a cornerstone of society. Through initiatives such as Dubai Weddings and Dubai Iftar, we aim to promote social stability and foster community bonds, while using smart digital platforms to enhance engagement with various segments of society."

Sabah Salem Al Shamsi, Acting Assistant Secretary General for Government Communication and General Secretariat Affairs, emphasised the significance of community values in national identity. He remarked that President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's declaration underscores this commitment. "The declaration by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan underscores the importance of community values in our national identity. Strengthening cohesion helps translate these values into positive action," he noted.

Budoor Ali, Director of Government Communications at the General Secretariat of The Executive Council, spoke about effective communication strategies. She mentioned that Dubai’s government has developed a dynamic model to inspire participation and boost social cohesion. This model contributes to achieving the objectives set for both the Year of Community and Dubai Social Agenda 33.

The meeting also reviewed several key initiatives like "Our Children, Our Responsibility," launched under H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's patronage. Mariam Al Falahi from the Social Policy and Strategy Department explained that this initiative provides a comprehensive framework for child welfare. It covers healthcare, education, social services, and legal support from pre-natal stages through adulthood.

Promoting Ethical Values

Shahla Al Shehhi from the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department introduced the Closer to the Community project. This initiative features Ramadan activities aimed at enhancing community engagement. She stated that it promotes ethical values while supporting Quranic education for children and youth. "Through the Closer to the Community initiative, we are promoting ethical values, supporting Quranic education for children and youth, and encouraging social cohesion within neighbourhoods," she said.

The meeting underscored how these initiatives contribute significantly to reinforcing national identity and social values across Dubai’s diverse communities.

With inputs from WAM