الشارقة 24 – وام:
In a heartfelt tribute to the late Sheikh Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, has directed the launch of the second village in the “Rashed Villages” initiative in Zanzibar. This launch coincides with the eleventh anniversary of Sheikh Rashid’s passing and continues the humanitarian legacy initiated by Sheikh Hamdan last year, aimed at commemorating Sheikh Rashid’s commitment to philanthropy and sustainable community development..
A Message of Continuous Generosity and Loyalty
Sheikh Hamdan remarked that the legacy of Sheikh Rashid’s philanthropic work will persist through projects that encapsulate his values and dedication to helping others. He stated, “Rashed has left us, but his goodness remains. His contributions continue by God’s grace. Last year we launched the first Rashed Village in Kenya, and today we advance this journey with the opening of the second village in Zanzibar, ensuring his name is always associated with benevolence and impactful work.” .
He further emphasized the importance of remembering Sheikh Rashid’s humanitarian deeds, saying, “The true legacy of a person is the goodness they leave that changes the lives of others and opens doors for a dignified life. Our aim today is to ensure these values are embodied in actions that benefit people, providing families with stability and security, transforming this legacy into a continuous source of goodwill reaching new communities year after year.”.
Sheikh Hamdan concluded, “The Rashed Villages initiative is a message of ongoing generosity and loyalty, a project we wish to see grow and extend its impact from one village to another, from one community to the next, year after year. We began in Kenya, today we continue in Zanzibar, and, God willing, we will reach new communities to always stand by those in dire need of hope and stability. May God bless Rashid and honour his memory.”.
A Comprehensive and Sustainable Model
The second phase of the “Rashed Villages” initiative in Zanzibar will witness the development of a new, comprehensive, and sustainable village. This new settlement will provide supported families with the means for a dignified life, including adequate housing, educational facilities, healthcare, and promising economic opportunities. The design emphasizes transitioning families from dependency to self-sufficiency within environmentally sustainable parameters and infrastructure reliant on renewable energy..
The village will incorporate a range of community and service facilities, including a mosque and commercial shops that will invigorate the local economy and provide sustainable income sources. It will also feature a coherent educational and healthcare system, enhancing the quality of life and stability for families residing within the village..
Training Programs for Skill Development and Support for Small Enterprises
The village places a significant focus on empowerment, offering training programs designed to develop skills and support small enterprises that aid families in establishing sustainable income sources and self-reliance. Additionally, the project will feature external facilities and playgrounds, coupled with modern infrastructure, positioning the village as an integrated community that blends housing with services and developmental opportunities..
The supervisory committee for the “Rashed Villages” initiative, chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will oversee the initiative’s implementation and monitor its various stages to ensure its developmental and humanitarian goals align with the vision behind its inception. The committee is also tasked with tracking the progress of the first village in Kenya and the development of its facilities and services while overseeing plans for expansion into new villages to guarantee the project’s sustainability and broaden its impact year after year..
Establishment of the First Village in Kenya
Last September, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum launched the “Rashed Villages” initiative in commemoration of the tenth anniversary of Sheikh Rashid’s passing. This initiative began with the establishment of the first village in Kenya, featuring a comprehensive model that includes housing, education, healthcare, social services, and economic opportunities..