Mohammed Bin Khalid Al Nahyan Institutions Partner With IFAW To Enhance Wildlife Conservation Efforts

The Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan Cultural and Educational Institutions have partnered with the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) to boost awareness about animal welfare, wildlife conservation, and biodiversity in the UAE. This collaboration was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Dr. Shamma bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan, with Azzedine T. Downes, President and CEO of IFAW, also present.

The agreement sets a foundation for joint educational initiatives focusing on animal welfare and habitat protection. It includes sharing expertise, organising events, and running training programmes to foster a culture of conservation within the community. Additionally, it involves cooperation in awareness campaigns, research activities, and developing best practices for wildlife care.

H.H. Sheikha Dr. Shamma highlighted the importance of this partnership in advancing animal welfare efforts in line with UAE's national strategies. These strategies aim to enhance legal frameworks for wildlife protection and responsible animal ownership. "As civil society organisations and community institutions, our role is to reinforce this vision through community engagement and by raising awareness about wildlife and animal welfare issues," she stated.

Downes expressed that the collaboration seeks to instil compassion and responsibility towards animals and nature, values integral to UAE's heritage. He noted that combining global expertise with local leadership would empower communities, strengthen education, and build a sustainable future where both people and wildlife can thrive.

This partnership aligns with the mission of the Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan Cultural and Educational Institutions to engage UAE society in environmental issues. It aims to promote best practices in animal welfare while supporting the UAE's leadership efforts to maintain wildlife health and balance.

The IFAW is a global non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting animals and their habitats through various conservation programmes, emergency responses, and policy advocacy. This collaboration marks a significant step towards achieving shared goals in wildlife conservation.

The MoU represents a new beginning towards achieving these objectives by strengthening leadership efforts to safeguard wildlife health in the UAE. Through this partnership, both organisations aim to foster a culture that supports sustainable coexistence between humans and nature.

With inputs from WAM