UAE Food Bank Expands Global Impact, Benefiting 28.9 Million People in 2024

The UAE Food Bank, an initiative under the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), has reported a remarkable 55% increase in its food aid reach for 2024, benefiting 28.9 million people worldwide.

This achievement surpasses its annual targets by over 100% and underscores the UAE’s commitment to humanitarian and sustainability goals.

In alignment with the UAE’s 2027 target to reduce food waste by 30%, the Food Bank successfully diverted 5,466 tonnes of food from landfills, mitigating environmental pollution and reinforcing sustainable food management practices.

The Bank expanded its global network by securing 30 strategic agreements with government bodies, humanitarian organizations, and food industry leaders. Its emergency relief efforts saw 166.7 tonnes of food dispatched to the Emirates Red Crescent, with a significant portion allocated to Gaza under the ‘Compassion for Gaza’ campaign. Additionally, 12.08 tonnes of aid were sent to Lebanon as part of the ‘UAE With You, Lebanon’ initiative.

A 52% increase in donors brought the total to 1,214, while 157 awareness programs engaged 4,357 participants in sustainability efforts. The Bank’s workforce included approximately 5,000 volunteers supporting surplus food redistribution.

Manal Obaid bin Yaroof, Head of the Executive Team, emphasized the Bank’s commitment to sustainable food aid under the guidance of Her Highness Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum.

Since its establishment in 2017, the UAE Food Bank has distributed over 96 million meals and built a robust global network. With a focus on surplus food management and humanitarian outreach, it continues to play a vital role in global food security and sustainability.

News Source: Emirates News Agency