January 31, 2025
Save the Children and IRC directors among speakers at Zamzam UK London launch on February 13
Senior leaders from Save the Children International and International Rescue Committee are among four distinguished speakers marking the UK launch of Somalia’s biggest charity with a public debate on how to build community resilience in the face of poverty, climate change and conflict.
‘Building Resilience For All Somalis’, which is taking place at East London Mosque on Thursday, February 12 (5.45-9.15pm), will bring together mosque and community leaders and representatives of leading aid agencies for an evening of insightful speeches and stimulating discussion, followed by a complimentary dinner. Book your ticket now to avoid disappointment!
“I’m delighted that we are establishing Zamzam Foundation UK to raise awareness about humanitarian needs in Somalia and generate vital funds,” says Tahir Tahir, Zamzam UK’s Chair of Trustees. “Our launch event is a great opportunity to join a crucial conversation about how we can best support and empower Somalis to build a brighter future.”
The main speakers at the event will be:
Dr Hany El-Banna OBE, founder of Islamic Relief and Chair of the World Humanitarian Action Forum
Abdurahman Sharif, Senior Humanitarian Director, Save the Children International
Elisa Pozzi, Deputy Director – Economic Recovery and Development, International Rescue Committee
Omar Jama, Executive Director, Zamzam Foundation
The panel debate will be chaired by a leading British-Somali journalist.
Zamzam Foundation, established in 1992, is Somalia’s biggest charity, supporting over 2.2 million Somalis last year. It is working in close collaboration with local communities and the support of over 50 partner organisations to build a brighter future for all Somalis through a combination of emergency relief, education, healthcare, livelihoods, clean water projects and peacebuilding activities.
Against a challenging backdrop of climate change and conflict, it operates in a non-political and non-partisan way, supporting the poorest and most vulnerable people in all areas – from Somaliland in the north to Lower Juba in the south and all regions in between.
Zamzam Foundation UK is being launched to raise awareness in the UK about the challenges Somalis face and to raise funds for Zamzam Foundation’s lifesaving and life-changing work – through an innovative partnership with a UK registered charity called Somali Relief and Development Forum.
“Over the past three decades, Zamzam Foundation in Somalia has built eight hospitals and more than 150 schools,” says Tahir Tahir. “The organisation has also set up over 300 health clinics, implemented more than 10,000 aid projects, and delivered clean water for millions by providing over 5,000 wells and 160 boreholes.
“My hope is that through Zamzam Foundation UK we can celebrate this success and promote this important work, raising more funds to transform more lives.”