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MOFA, GWU, MBZ Academy for Agriculture and Environment, UN Women, with ERC support launch Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak’s Initiative to empower Africa’s rural women in agricultural sector

ABU DHABI, 31st May, 2023 (WAM) –As part of an international strategic strategy aiming to eliminate the impacts of climate change, empower women and girls, enhance food security, and in alignment with the priorities of the UAE Foreign Aid Policy, the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), General Women's Union, Mohamed bin Zayed Academy for Agriculture and Environment, UN Women, with support of the Emirati RCA launched H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Initiative to Empower Africa’s Rural Women in Agricultural Sector.
The Initiative aims to empower and habilitate 30 male and female trainees from Senegal and Ethiopia inside the UAE in the agriculture sector, as a first phase.

The second and following phases will be implemented in several countries with the overall aim of training and building the capacities of more than 20,000 rural women to make their living and be entrepreneurs in agriculture sector, in addition to closing the gender gap in this vital sector. Other aims include developing the rural women’s skills and abilities in agriculture, imped concepts of sustainability and reducing carbon emissions by using new agriculture techniques, to help adapt with the climate change implications.
The initiative also aims to make agriculture a primary source of income for the rural women in addition to fulfilling their personal consumption needs, or selling the produces to contribute in the economic development of their countries.
The initiative will be utilised to scale up the female beneficiaries’ base of the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) in the African countries, along with improving their economic, social and humanitarian capacities.
Through the initiative, the trainees will be hosted in the UAE and enrolled in extensive training courses facilitated by experts in agriculture and management of small and large farms, to enable them to train other rural women in their countries.
Sheikha Dr. Moza bint Tahnoun bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Advisor in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said, “This initiative comes in line with the humanitarian message of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, who helped in finding realistic solutions for many social problems, including fighting poverty by developing and habilitating the human resources.

“This inspiring project will open doors of hope to these female trainees, allowing them to integrate in the production cycle of their communities and countries.

“This initiative will help protecting the human societies from poverty, and to be more empowered, developed and happier through improving the capacities of the rural women, and help them fulfil their dreams for decent lives for them, their families and communities.”
She added that “the UAE’s commitment towards the African nations contributes in achieving more optimistic future vision for the continent. This initiative coincides with celebrating the world “Day of Africa” and comes in light of the UAE Leadership’s conviction that the real value of help and support lies in building the human capital on the long run.”
Sheikha Dr. Moza bint Tahnoun said, “This initiative is an integral part of the efforts of HH Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, Mother of the UAE, in supporting women’s leadership and empowerment beginning from the UAE and all over the worlds out of Her Highness’ belief in the importance and prioritising women’s support and capacity building in various sectors, in addition to Her Highness’s role in boosting Women, Peace and Security Agenda worldwide.”
Sultan Al Shamsi, Assistant Minister for Development and International Organisations in MoFA, stated that: “the initiative of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, (Mother of the Nation), Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation and the Honorary President of the Emirates Red Crescent, Mother of the UAE, is drawn upon the primary goals of the UAE’s Foreign Aid Policy that aims to improve the lives of the less fortunate communities, reduce poverty and building world’s peace, stability and prosperity through active participation in the exerted efforts aiming to implement the Sustainable Development Goals; among which empowering women and girls, particularly in Africa.
Al Shamsi added, The United Arab Emirates is working on this initiative to help reduce the impacts of climate change and to help the rural women in Africa addressing the challenges that affect their ability to increase their productivity and income, by providing them with the required skills to fulfil their and their families’ needs, because we in the UAE believe in the importance of women empowerment and her active role in enhancing the sustainable economic growth.”

Noura Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General of the General Women's Union (GWU), highlighted that, “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 the Honorary President of the Emirates Red Crescent, Mother of the UAE, has extended numerous humanitarian and charitable contributions in the long-dated UAE giving journey that expands all over the world, out of Her Highness’s vision aiming to drive the humanitarian and women’s work forward, and make a paradigm shift to improve women’s lives, as part of the efforts to build safe and stable societies.
She added, “The initiative of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak to Empower Rural Women in Africa in Agriculture Sector coincides with the Year of Sustainability and with the UAE’s efforts to host the COP28 conference on Climate Change, where rural woman is a central pillar in the solutions to sustainable future, with plenty of inspiring women around the world acted actively to cope with the negative impacts of climate change, and showed great resilience in adapting low carbon technologies and sustainable production methods in agriculture, energy, water management and food security systems.
She also indicated that the initiative provides the trainees with the knowledge and experience to respond more effectively to climate change, and to be more resilient to the modern techniques in agriculture sector, in addition to helping them transfer their knowledge to their communities to dissemination the anticipated benefits of rural women empowerment, which is the key to the success of family, communities and national economies.
In this regard, Hamoud Al Junaibi, Secretary General of Emirate Red Crescent, commended the initiative of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak to Empower Rural Women in Africa, and said, “It is one of the leading initiatives in the humanitarian and development field because it targets a significant segment in the African countries, especially those that are famous for women workers in agriculture sector who are handling plenty of life and livelihoods burdens.”
He also emphasised that, “this strategic partnership opens broader horizons for cooperation and coordination in one of the most important humanitarian and development work that promotes the capacities of the vulnerable segments to face difficult life conditions, indicating that this step would enhance the ERC's development efforts.”
He also added, “This initiative is one of the most important humanitarian and development projects that would bring about positive impacts to many people in Africa, and promotes stability and development in the concerned countries, which would, in turn, alleviate the living burdens of many needy and abstinent families, provide solutions to food scarce and reduce poverty in the least developed communities.”
He also pointed out that: this type of initiatives is a priority because it relates to fulfilling the human’s basic needs, especially those related to agriculture and food. Adding that this step will be the nucleus for more vital projects in this sector in the future.
Dr. Abdulmonem Almarzooqi , CEO and Member of the Board of Elite Agro Holding, said that, “The programme aims to support women, who represent over 40 percent of the agriculture labour force, and moving from subsistence farming to a more sustainable and commercial-oriented approach, and encourage them to take leading positions in agriculture sector to address poverty, food security and eliminate gender disparities.
This participation is an integral part of the Mohamed bin Zayed Academy for Agriculture and Environment and is drown on the UAE’s endeavour not only to train female farmers to move from subsistence to sustainability, but also to move from merchant to entrepreneur, with special focus on the challenges and scientific solutions.
Dr. Mouza Al Shehhi, Executive Director of UN Women Liaison Office for the GCC, said, “investing in empowering and building the capacities of rural women in the sustainable agriculture sector is a strategic necessity to achieve food security, sustainable development and eliminate poverty.” If rural women were empowered and their abilities were unleashed, that would transform the local societies, protect the environment and assure more equitable and prosperous future for all.

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Emirates

Hamriyah and Deira ports record AED 12.133b in customs declaration value for first nine months of 2023

Dubai Customs plays a crucial role as the frontline defense for community security, consistently advancing its customs centers to safeguard and facilitate maritime trade. H.E. Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, Director General of Dubai Customs, CEO of
Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, recently visited Creek Customs Center, Deira Port, and Hamriyah Port Customs Center to evaluate progress and oversee ongoing efforts for continuous customs service development. During this visit, several executive directors, department heads, and customs center managers were present.

Ahmed Mahboob Musabih, accompanied by Rashid Al Dhabah Al Suwaidi, Acting Director of Seae Customs Centers Management, conducted inspections at Khor Customs Center, Deira Port, and Hamriyah Port Customs Center. Managers Abdulaziz Ibrahim Al Salman and Majid Salem Al Tawilah provided insights into workflow progress and accomplishments. Over the first nine months of this year, 62,454 customs declarations were processed, totaling AED 12.133 billion, with 19 seizures recorded during the same period. A visit to Hamriyah Port Customs Center showcased an advanced container X-ray inspection device, supporting increased inspection operations.

Subsequently, visits to Khor Customs Center and Deira Port highlighted achievements, including a notable seizure called the “Wheelhouse,” which successfully prevented an attempt to smuggle 243 kilograms of narcotics into the country. Commending customs employees, Ahmed Mahboob Musabih emphasized the pivotal role of maritime customs centers in ensuring community security and facilitating trade. The department collaborates for efficient goods clearance and acknowledges employee efforts
during the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing to the department’s support for global efforts to revive maritime navigation and international trade.

Musabih clarified that the department’s advanced capabilities in monitoring and inspection enable it to keep pace with the UAE’s rapid foreign trade growth. Supporting Dubai’s economic agenda D33, the department aims to double foreign trade and enhance economic partnerships with key global markets. Efforts to boost customs inspector efficiency continue through training courses, ensuring their ability to thwart smuggling attempts. Continuous development of X-ray scanning
devices and the K9 customs dog unit further enhances contraband control achievements. Rasheed Al-Dabah explained that the forthcoming period will witness the advancement of new initiatives and mechanisms in the realm of inspection and examination. These initiatives are grounded in a forward-looking perspective to introduce cutting-edge technologies utilized in examining maritime transport vessels, wooden ships, and ships engaged in fish trade.

He remarked, “Our endeavors are harmonized to enhance performance in sea customs centers, concurrently focusing on bolstering monitoring, tracking, and technical support activities to yield optimal outcomes through continuous and productive collaboration among all specialized teams within the department. The Customs centers in Deira, Al Khor, and
Hamriyah Port Customs Center shoulder their vital responsibilities in safeguarding society and facilitating maritime trade through Dubai Creek and Hamriyah Port, supporting the ongoing growth of the national economy.”

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Emirates

Dubai Customs Hosts Sharjah Housing Delegation to Strengthen Government Communication Ties

Dubai Customs, represented by the Corporate Communication Department, warmly welcomed a delegation from the Sharjah Housing Department. The purpose of the visit was to familiarize the delegation with the duties and responsibilities of the
Corporate Communication Department and its affiliated divisions. The delegation also aimed to explore the awards received by the department, notably the recognition as the Best Government Communication Team in the Sharjah Government Communication Award for 2023.

Khalil Saqer bin Gharib, Director of Corporate Communication Department, along with department managers, extended a cordial reception to the Sharjah Housing delegation, which included Dr. Ahmed Rashid Al Nuaimi, Director of Government Communication, Nada Sivan, Head of the Public Relations and Events Department, and Hamad Saleh Al Hamadi, Head of
the New Media Department. Bin Gharib highlighted the department’s commitment to strengthening communication with government entities to exchange practical experiences and knowledge. The delegation was briefed on Dubai Customs exceptional performance in customs operations and other facets.

The meeting delved into discussions on potential avenues for collaboration, with the Sharjah Housing delegation. Emphasis was placed on the crucial role played by Dubai Customs’ Corporate Communication Department, customs administrations, and centers in ensuring security and safeguarding society. The delegation was presented with an overview of the department’s working mechanisms, awareness campaigns, events, and activities conducted internally and externally, aligning with Dubai Customs esteemed reputation.

Furthermore, the Sharjah Housing delegation acquired an understanding of the best media practices adopted by the Corporate Communication Department, showcasing its outstanding performance in enhancing knowledge and media dissemination to all partners. This has resulted in the department establishing and fortifying relationships with local and international media
entities. The presentation also encompassed the factors contributing to the department’s receipt of the award for the Best Government Communication Team in the Sharjah Government Communication Award.

Dr. Ahmed Rashid Al Nuaimi, Director of Government Communication at Sharjah Housing, expressed appreciation for the efforts of Dubai Customs Corporate Communication Department, acknowledging its excellence and significant contribution to enhancing the department’s standing. Dr. Al Nuaimi affirmed Sharjah Housing’s commitment to fostering ongoing visits and meetings with Dubai Customs, aiming to achieve the highest level of coordination and benefit from the Corporate Communication Departmen’s experience in securing numerous local and international awards.

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Emirates

Zayed Sustainability Prize opens submissions for 2025 cycle

The Zayed Sustainability Prize, the UAE’s pioneering global sustainability and humanitarian award, has officially announced that the 2025 cycle is now open for submissions.  Submissions will be accepted until 23 June 2024 through the Prize’s online portal. Small to medium enterprises (SMEs), nonprofit organisations (NPOs) and high schools with sustainable solutions are invited to submit an entry for consideration in one of the six categories of Heath, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action and Global High Schools. Commenting on the launch of the 2025 submissions cycle, H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Director General of the Zayed Sustainability Prize, and COP28 President, said: “Since 2008, the
Zayed Sustainability Prize has honoured the legacy of Sheikh Zayed by fostering inclusive sustainable and humanitarian development around the world. In this decisive decade for climate change, these values are more important than ever. I am optimistic that the Prize will contribute to global climate action in line with the UAE Consensus, which will pave the
way toward an effective response to the Global Stocktake decision.” In response to the pressing climate crisis, and to further support the UAE’s efforts to accelerate practical solutions needed to drive climate action and uplift vulnerable communities around the world, the Prize has increased its funds from US $3.6 million to US $5.9 million. The Prize will reward US $1 million to each winner in the organisational categories of Health, Food, Energy, Water and Climate Action. Within the Global High Schools category, which is split into six world regions, each school can claim up to US $150,000 to start or further expand their project. The six world regions of the Global High Schools category are The Americas, Europe and Central Asia, Middle East and North Africa, Sub- Saharan Africa, South Asia, and East Asia and Pacific. The most recent Zayed Sustainability Prize winners were recognised at an Awards Ceremony held during COP28 UAE. To encourage a broader range of organisations and high schools to participate, the Prize will be accepting submissions in multiple languages, including Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish, and Portuguese. This will ensure that innovative solutions from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds can be recognised. For the Health, Food, Energy, Water and Climate Action categories, organisations should prove that they are improving access to essential products or services in their targeted communities and are able to implement a long-term vision for better living and working conditions. For the Global High Schools category, projects should be led by students, and must demonstrate innovative approaches to address sustainability challenges. The evaluation of each submission to the Prize consists of a rigorous, three-stage process. First, due diligence is conducted on all submissions to ensure that they meet the Prize’s evaluation criteria of Impact, Innovation, and Inspiration. This identifies the qualified entries and results in the selection of eligible candidates. Following this, evaluations are undertaken by a Selection Committee consisting of category-specific panels of independent international experts. From this shortlist of candidates, the finalists are chosen and then sent to the Prize Jury who unanimously elect the winners across all six categories.   Winners of the Zayed Sustainability Prize will be announced at an Awards Ceremony during the 2025 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW).

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