In Morocco, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, a prominent advocate for child welfare and the chairperson of the Khaled bin Sultan Al Qasimi Humanitarian Foundation, has announced two new humanitarian initiatives aimed at strengthening community protection systems for vulnerable children. These efforts focus on creating safe environments for socially disadvantaged children, including refugees and migrants from approximately 64 countries residing in Morocco. The initiatives reflect the foundation’s commitment to promoting child protection and well-being across the region.
The Mission of the Khaled bin Sultan Al Qasimi Humanitarian Foundation
The Khaled bin Sultan Al Qasimi Humanitarian Foundation, established in 2024, is dedicated to protecting and empowering children who are victims of poverty, ignorance, conflict, and natural disasters worldwide. The foundation aims to ensure that these children receive their basic rights and support through community outreach programs, protective initiatives, and global strategic partnerships. Its objectives also include reducing the risks of exploitation, forced labor, and child trafficking, in collaboration with local and international humanitarian organizations.
Details of the New Initiatives
The first project is funded by the Khaled bin Sultan Al Qasimi Humanitarian Foundation and is implemented by the Aman Foundation for Child Protection in the Souss-Massa region, specifically in the Taroudant province. The second initiative is a collaborative effort between the foundation and the Big Heart Foundation, executed by Bayti Association in the Kenitra province. These projects align with the long-term vision of the foundation, reflecting Sharjah and the UAE’s commitment to social stability and sustainable development for children living under challenging circumstances.
A Vision for Future Generations
Her Highness emphasized that these initiatives embody the noble message of the late Sheikh Khaled bin Sultan Al Qasimi, which centers on making child protection a fundamental cornerstone of community building. She praised Morocco’s efforts in advancing child welfare and enhancing community protection systems that accommodate all societal segments, particularly children, whether they are nationals or refugees seeking safety in the country. During her meeting with Bayti Association officials, she stated, “We cannot rest easy knowing that there is a child suffering or being deprived of their rights to care, education, and health.”
Strengthening Local Child Protection Systems
Sheikha Jawaher also signed an agreement for the first project entitled “Enhancing Local Child Protection Systems through Community Involvement, Government Cooperation, and Field Outreach,” which will run for 17 months. This initiative targets 740 direct beneficiaries and over 5,000 families and institutions. The project aims to elevate child protection services in rural areas by developing safer nurturing environments and focusing on family empowerment and community awareness. Through these efforts, the Khaled bin Sultan Al Qasimi Humanitarian Foundation seeks to contribute significantly to national efforts in building a robust protective framework for children and girls, ensuring that they can thrive in a safe and supportive environment.
Creating a Sustainable Future for Children
The second initiative titled “Cultivating the Future: Prevention, Protection, and Rehabilitation for Street-Working Children and Their Families” has an 18-month operational span and aims to assist and rehabilitate 100 direct beneficiaries, along with 140 indirect beneficiaries from their families and local communities. This project enhances the effectiveness of social protection policies in urban centers and seeks to establish a comprehensive model for prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration, drawing on the expertise of Bayti Association, which has been a leader in child protection for over three decades.
The project provides children with essential shelter, healthcare, and educational opportunities, including vocational training in organic agriculture. By working the land and caring for plants, children learn valuable life skills and teamwork, fostering self-confidence and a sense of belonging. This approach offers a therapeutic environment that helps them recover and reintegrate into education and society, ensuring that the community takes responsibility for safeguarding its children.