Riyadh, October 18, 2024 – The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through its humanitarian arm, the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), continues to lead global efforts to combat food insecurity and enhance the quality of life for vulnerable communities around the world. In observance of World Food Day on October 16, KSrelief underscores the critical importance of the food, water, and environmental sanitation sectors in improving the lives of millions who struggle to access these essential resources.
Since its establishment in 2015, KSrelief has embarked on an ambitious journey, implementing over 3,000 projects across 102 countries. The center's comprehensive approach addresses various sectors including food and agricultural security, early recovery, water and environmental sanitation, health, education, and shelter. In particular, KSrelief has launched 902 projects focused on food and agricultural security, amounting to over $2.11 billion in investments. Additionally, the organization has initiated 28 nutrition-related projects valued at $187.68 million and 99 projects in the water and environmental sanitation sector, totaling $294.32 million.
KSrelief has established extensive collaborations with the World Food Program (WFP) to deliver crucial humanitarian assistance to those in need. A notable example is in the Gaza Strip, where KSrelief has provided vital food aid to individuals affected by ongoing humanitarian crises. Utilizing various modes of transportation, including land, air, and sea, the center has conducted airdrops in partnership with the Jordanian Armed Forces, ensuring timely and efficient delivery of essential supplies.
Recently, KSrelief has signed agreements targeting critical needs in Somalia and Sudan. In Somalia, the center is focused on preventing severe malnutrition in drought-affected regions, with plans to benefit approximately 180,148 individuals. In Sudan, KSrelief is committed to supporting the water and sanitation sector in the Kassala and Al-Qadarif states, directly impacting 833,520 individuals and indirectly benefiting an additional 5 million people. These initiatives were prominently announced during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, showcasing the Kingdom's dedication to global humanitarian efforts.
In 2023, KSrelief launched a significant dates aid program across 72 countries, successfully distributing over 19,000 tons of dates. This included a substantial 4,000 tons provided in collaboration with the WFP, with the entire program costing SAR 136 million. The initiative not only addresses food insecurity but also promotes nutritional support for communities in need.
Furthermore, in 2024, the center initiated the Ramadan Iftar distribution project, which reached nine Yemeni governorates. This vital initiative supplied essential food items to over 30,000 families during the holy month of Ramadan, reflecting KSrelief's unwavering commitment to meeting the basic food needs of vulnerable populations globally.
Through these diverse initiatives, KSrelief exemplifies Saudi Arabia's dedication to humanitarian principles and its proactive role in addressing global challenges related to food insecurity and quality of life. The organization remains steadfast in its mission to uplift communities in distress, fostering a spirit of solidarity and compassion across borders.
