Alwaleed Philanthropies “Global” Support for Urban Areas in the Arab Region: Reducing COVID-19 Infection Risks and Facilitating Refugee Return

In the midst of the global COVID-19 pandemic, UN-Habitat has been actively involved in supporting vulnerable communities and reducing the impact of the virus in various regions. This project aims to support the five projects undertaken by UN-Habitat in Iraq, Palestine, Sudan, Syria, and Tunisia. These projects aim to enhance preparedness and response measures, improve living conditions, provide sanitation and hygiene facilities, and address the needs of vulnerable populations. Through these initiatives, UN-Habitat has been working towards reducing the transmission risks of COVID-19 and ensuring the well-being of communities.

During the period of 2020-2021, UN-Habitat provided support for COVID-19 preparedness and response in Iraq, focusing on the Heet District within the Anbar Governorate. The project aimed to rehabilitate damaged housing, water networks, and health facilities in collaboration with local authorities and in line with WHO recommendations. By addressing these critical areas, the project aimed to reduce the risks of infection, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly. Additionally, the project sought to facilitate the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their original areas. Through its targeted efforts in poorly equipped regions, UN-Habitat played a significant role in mitigating the transmission risks of COVID-19 in Iraq.

In 2021, a remarkable series of accomplishments transformed the lives of countless individuals. With unwavering dedication, 60 houses underwent rehabilitation, restoring not only physical structures but also providing renewed hope for the families that called them home. The extension of the water system brought relief to 262 families, encompassing a total of 1,434 individuals who could now enjoy the basic necessity of clean water. Additionally, the advancement of healthcare was not overlooked, as 7 health facilities received comprehensive upgrades, prioritizing water and sanitation.

From 2020 to 2021, UN-Habitat embarked on a project in Bethlehem, Palestine, with the goal of supporting solid waste management preparedness and response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Collaborating with UN agencies, the Joint Services Council for Solid Waste Management, and Camp Service Committees, the project aimed to bring stability to the community and foster integration between refugees and the host community. As part of the initiative, handwashing units were installed in various cities, promoting essential personal health and hygiene practices to combat the spread of the virus. Through these efforts, UN-Habitat contributed to safeguarding the well-being of the population in Bethlehem and addressing the unique challenges posed by the pandemic.

In 2021, a concerted effort aimed directly at 60,000 individuals, including approximately 20,000 refugees, brought about transformative changes. However, the reach of these achievements extended far beyond those directly targeted. In the Bethlehem Governorate alone, the influence rippled out to encompass an impressive 217,400 people who experienced indirect benefits. Among them, nearly half were young women, and over one-third were young people, indicating a focus on empowering and uplifting the future generation.

During the period of 2020-2021, UN-Habitat undertook a project in Khartoum, Sudan, with the objective of preventing COVID-19 outbreaks and community transmission in vulnerable informal settlements. The project centered around expanding shelter and improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities, while also promoting social distancing measures. Additionally, awareness campaigns were conducted to educate the community on COVID-19 prevention, and local volunteer groups and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) were engaged to effectively respond to the health crisis. Through these comprehensive measures, UN-Habitat aimed to reduce the risks of COVID-19 transmission and protect the wellbeing of vulnerable groups residing in informal settlements in Khartoum.

In 2021, a year filled with remarkable achievements, the scope of housing was dramatically expanded to encompass the lives of 1,800 individuals who were previously homeless, including vulnerable street children. This monumental effort provided them with a safe and secure place to call home, igniting a newfound sense of hope and stability. Furthermore, the impact extended beyond housing, as 25,000 people experienced the positive effects of water, sanitation, and hygiene services (WASH). Access to clean water, improved sanitation facilities, and educational awareness campaigns brought about tangible improvements in their well-being.

From 2020 to 2021, UN-Habitat implemented a project in Jaramana, Duma, Harasta, Al Tal, Set Zaynab, and Al Zabadani cities in Rural Damascus, Syria, with the objective of reinforcing community preparedness in responding to potential COVID-19 outbreaks. The project emphasized the improvement of health and environmental conditions through decontamination measures, safe management of solid waste, and the activation of community-based initiatives. By reducing the transmission of COVID-19 in densely populated areas and mobilizing local structures and volunteer networks, the project aimed to strengthen crisis response efforts and mitigate the impact of the pandemic on these communities. UN-Habitat's interventions played a vital role in enhancing the preparedness and resilience of the targeted areas in the face of the ongoing health crisis.

In 2021, hygiene and cleaning campaigns were meticulously carried out, reaching an astounding 225,000 beneficiaries across six municipalities. Additionally, significant progress was made in rehabilitating sewage house links, resulting in improved living conditions for 297,000 individuals in the rural areas surrounding Damascus. What's even more remarkable is the ripple effect of these achievements, as the indirect beneficiaries totaled an impressive 410,000 individuals.

During the period of 2020-2021, UN-Habitat directed its efforts towards addressing precarious housing conditions in Tunis, Sousse, and Sfax, Tunisia. The project specifically targeted homeless individuals, those with insecure housing, and those in need of affordable housing solutions. By providing aid and support to governmental and civil society structures dedicated to assisting the homeless, UN-Habitat aimed to create safer environments and address the growing demand for low-cost housing. Through rapid rehabilitation measures and innovative housing solutions, the project sought to improve living conditions and ensure housing security for vulnerable populations. By collaborating with local organizations, UN-Habitat played a crucial role in advancing the well-being and stability of communities facing housing challenges in Tunisia.

Numerous initiatives were undertaken in 2021, including the rehabilitation of rooms for the homeless, the refurbishment of sanitary blocks, the repair of windows, and the beautification of gardens. These efforts aimed to create a more dignified and comfortable living environment for those in need. In addition, an architectural competition was organized to foster innovative, low-cost, and rapidly constructible housing solutions for low-income households. The competition attracted the participation of 95 talented students, showcasing their creativity and dedication to addressing the pressing housing challenges faced by vulnerable communities. These accomplishments exemplify the power of collective action and innovative thinking in transforming lives and creating inclusive spaces for all.

UN-Habitat's initiatives in Iraq, Palestine, Sudan, Syria, and Tunisia have demonstrated their commitment to supporting communities in their fight against COVID-19. These projects have played a crucial role in reducing transmission risks, promoting community engagement, and strengthening crisis response measures by addressing housing, sanitation, and hygiene needs. As the world continues to battle the pandemic, Alwaleed philanthropies “Global” continue to support the UN-Habitat's efforts to serve as an inspiring example of how organizations can contribute to the well-being and resilience of communities in challenging times.