Amman: H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Humanitarian Envoy of The Big Heart Foundation, underscored the need for unified efforts to address the escalating humanitarian crisis facing Palestinians, particularly in the Gaza Strip, during his visit to the Marka refugee camp in Jordan.
According to Emirates News Agency, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed emphasized the importance of sustainable development projects targeting healthcare, education, and food security to meet the basic needs of the Palestinian people. He urged charitable individuals and organizations to support these efforts, which represent a crucial humanitarian responsibility toward those who are displaced or in need.
The Marka refugee camp, home to over 70,000 Palestinian refugees, served as the backdrop for Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed’s call to action. His delegation from the Emirate of Sharjah included senior officials and representatives from The Big Heart Foundation, UAE government entities, and private sector organizations. The visit aimed to explore successful humanitarian projects in health, education, and food security, with the goal of implementing similar initiatives in Gaza and other areas hosting Palestinian refugees.
Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed highlighted the enduring hardships faced by Palestinians, particularly in Gaza, due to ongoing conflict. The breakdown of social and institutional infrastructure has deprived them of fundamental rights such as education and healthcare. The foundation’s strategy focuses on emergency relief and sustainable initiatives in healthcare and education to support thriving communities and protect future generations.
The visit was part of the ‘For the Children of Olives’ campaign, launched by H.H. Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, aiming to support over 20,000 orphans in Gaza. During his tour, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed visited the Marka Girls Preparatory School, operated by UNRWA, and met with officials to discuss collaboration on humanitarian projects.
He also visited a food security project by ANERA, which supports refugees through sustainable food production. The project aligns with The Big Heart Foundation’s goals for Gaza, enhancing self-reliance and reducing dependency on external aid. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed explored farming techniques and sustainable food production methods.
The visit included a consultative meeting with the Taawun Foundation, discussing recent humanitarian developments for Palestinian refugees and displaced persons. The “Noor Programme for Orphan Care” was presented, highlighting the needs of over 39,000 orphaned children in Gaza.
Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed concluded the visit by reviewing the outcomes and examining humanitarian models implemented in Jordan’s refugee camps. The delegation aimed to adapt these experiences to benefit refugees within the occupied Palestinian territories, emphasizing the need for evolving humanitarian programs to address regional challenges.
The Sharjah delegation included key figures such as Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Sheikh Sultan bin Saud Al Qasimi, Major General Abdullah Mubarak bin Amer, Badr Jafar, Hassan Yaqoub Al Mansouri, Mariam Al Hammadi, Rashid Abdullah Al Obaid, Alya Obaid Al-Musaybi, and other officials and representatives from supporting private sector companies.