Sheikha Fatima Fund And UNHCR Commit To Further Support Refugees With New Agreements

The Sheikha Fatima Fund for Women Refugee has formalised two new agreements with the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) at its Geneva headquarters. The first agreement extends their partnership for three more years to support refugee women. The second agreement initiates a US$1 million project aimed at providing sustainable shelter for refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Burkina Faso and Chad, benefiting around 871 families.

Dr. Maitha Al Shamsi, Minister of State and Chairperson of the Supreme Committee of the Sheikha Fatima Fund for Women Refugee, attended the signing ceremony along with other officials. She conveyed greetings from H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, emphasising the fund's commitment to empowering refugee women through education, healthcare, and skills development. "Mother of the Nation", Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation.

Dominique Hyde, Director of External Relations at UNHCR, highlighted the increasing global displacement crises and their severe impact on women and girls. Hyde stressed the need for solidarity and collaboration to address these urgent needs effectively. This collaboration follows discussions on previous successful projects funded by the Sheikha Fatima Fund and explores new ways to support refugee women and their families through sustainable development initiatives.

The agreements were signed by Dominique Hyde from UNHCR and Rashid Mubarak Al Mansouri, Secretary-General of the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC). The US$1 million project will provide sustainable shelter solutions for refugees and IDPs in Burkina Faso and Chad, directly benefiting approximately 871 families. This initiative aims to improve living conditions for those affected by displacement.

Al Mansouri praised the Sheikha Fatima Fund as a pioneering initiative that has previously implemented numerous programmes to strengthen women's capacities in refugee contexts. He noted that Sheikha Fatima established the fund in 2000 to address the harsh conditions faced by displaced women and create initiatives to improve their lives.

Commitment to Sustainable Development

The fund's renewed partnership with UNHCR underscores its ongoing commitment to supporting refugee women through sustainable development initiatives. These efforts aim to provide education, healthcare, and skills development opportunities that help women live with dignity and security. The collaboration between ERC, UNHCR, and the Sheikha Fatima Fund continues to focus on empowering women in challenging circumstances.

This renewed partnership highlights a shared dedication to addressing displacement crises worldwide while focusing on women's unique challenges. By working together, these organisations aim to create lasting positive impacts on refugee communities.

With inputs from WAM