MBRGI And UNICEF Strengthen Cooperation To Combat Child Malnutrition Globally
Mohammad Al Gergawi, Secretary-General of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), recently met with Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF. Their discussion focused on enhancing their partnership and evaluating the impact of MBRGI's pledge of approximately AED30 million (US$8.1 million) to UNICEF's Child Nutrition Fund (CNF). This fund aims to expand sustainable solutions to combat child malnutrition.
The meeting took place during the World Economic Forum in Davos, which runs from 20 to 24 January 2025. It underscored the shared dedication of MBRGI and UNICEF to tackle global child nutrition issues. They highlighted ongoing projects and initiatives, particularly those supporting Mongolia, Tanzania, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka in the first phase.
The funding from MBRGI is expected to provide essential food supplements and therapeutic meals to over 371,000 children and women through 2027. This aligns with MBRGI's mission to fight hunger and malnutrition while supporting vulnerable populations worldwide.
Al Gergawi emphasised the importance of this collaboration by stating, "Our partnership with UNICEF reflects the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to ensure vulnerable children and families live with dignity by providing vital care and support. This aligns with MBRGI's humanitarian mission to dedicate its resources and capabilities to positively impacting communities worldwide."
He further noted that this collaboration is crucial as many countries face economic crises, conflicts, and climate change challenges. These issues worsen the difficulties faced by women and children in affected regions. The joint efforts of MBRGI and UNICEF aim to bring sustainable positive change to millions' lives by empowering vulnerable communities.
MBRGI operates its initiatives across five main pillars: Humanitarian Aid & Relief, Healthcare & Disease Control, Spreading Education & Knowledge, Innovation & Entrepreneurship, and Empowering Communities. In 2023 alone, MBRGI spent AED1.8 billion benefiting over 111 million people in 105 countries.
This significant contribution highlights the commitment of both organisations towards improving global child nutrition. By working together, they strive for a future where every child has access to adequate nutrition regardless of their circumstances.
With inputs from WAM
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