UAE Minister Urges Community Empowerment to Overcome Global Aid Shortfalls

An Emirati minister has emphasized the vital role that vulnerable communities can play in resolving humanitarian challenges, especially as severe funding cuts disrupt global aid efforts. Speaking at the Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development Conference and Exhibition on Monday, Minister of State Maitha Al Shamsi outlined her vision to transform individuals in crisis zones from aid recipients into active participants in development.

Ms Al Shamsi highlighted that investing in education and specialized training for refugees can significantly ease the strain on host countries while providing a crucial lifeline to families. Emphasizing the need for economic alternatives, she noted that empowering these populations makes them true partners in finding solutions rather than mere contributors.

As an example, Ms Al Shamsi pointed to the UAE's initiative in Mauritania to lower maternal mortality rates by training local women as midwives. Through six-month training programs, approximately 30 women have gained the skills necessary to reduce deaths during childbirth among women and children.

The push for community-led solutions comes at a time when humanitarian organizations face a continuous decline in financial resources. Rania Dagash-Kamara, assistant executive director for partnerships and innovation at the World Food Programme, spoke at the Dubai World Trade Centre about the widening gap between resource availability and humanitarian needs.

To address future risks, Ms Al Shamsi also stressed the importance of proactive preparation, particularly for women in conflict zones prone to displacement and forced migration. She referenced the vision of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation, regarding the safety and training of women in dangerous regions. According to the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, global displacement affects more than 41 million refugees.

Highlighting the value of strategic collaborations, Ms Kamara noted that advancements in data and technology enable organizations to deploy early warning systems, deliver faster assistance, and maximize limited resources. She praised the ongoing cooperation between the UAE and the World Food Programme in tackling complex global crises.

Echoing these sentiments, Ahmed Al Muhairi, director general of the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), Dubai, stated that the humanitarian sector must transition from basic crisis management to proactive community empowerment and partnership. Now in its 22nd year, the Dihad conference continues to focus on fostering government and organizational cooperation to resolve displacement driven by armed conflicts and climate-related disasters.