In a humanitarian gesture reflecting the depth of fraternal ties, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, delivered a gift of premium dates from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, to the sisterly Federal Republic of Somalia. This initiative is part of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' annual gift program for distributing dates, implemented by the Ministry with the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, to support Muslims worldwide.
The official handover ceremony took place in the capital, Mogadishu, with several officials from both sides in attendance. The aid consisted of 30 tons of high-quality dates, which are expected to benefit approximately 120,000 individuals and families across Somalia, providing them with a staple food for their iftar meals throughout the holy month.
A historical context of giving
This initiative is not an isolated event, but rather an extension of decades of humanitarian and development support provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Somalia. The two countries share deep-rooted historical, cultural, and religious ties. The Dates Gift Program is a well-established annual tradition that reflects the Saudi leadership's commitment to serving Islam and Muslims and addressing their needs, particularly in countries facing economic or humanitarian challenges. This year, the program encompasses more than 120 countries worldwide, making it one of the largest seasonal humanitarian initiatives internationally.
The importance of the initiative and its expected impact
This gift holds particular significance for Somalia, which faces complex challenges including food insecurity resulting from climate change and recurring droughts. Locally, these dates will provide direct food support to the most vulnerable families, easing their burdens during Ramadan and reinforcing the values of solidarity and compassion within Somali society. Regionally and internationally, this initiative strengthens the Kingdom's position as a leading nation in humanitarian and relief work, underscoring its pivotal role in supporting stability and development in the Horn of Africa and the wider Muslim world. It also reinforces the Kingdom's commitment to humanitarian diplomacy, fostering bonds of brotherhood and friendship with diverse peoples around the globe.
Somali officials expressed their deep gratitude and appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and his Crown Prince for this generous gift, stressing that it reflects the Kingdom’s constant concern for its brothers in Somalia and contributes to strengthening the distinguished bilateral relations between the two countries.
