The safe water enterprise Project Maji has joined the International Humanitarian City (IHC) in Dubai, the largest humanitarian hub in the world. The membership allows us to strengthen our network in the UAE to mobilise support for sustainable access to safe drinking water, using solar-technology, remote monitoring, and e-pay services.
Project Maji Founder/CEO Sunil Lalvani explains why joining forces with IHC is an obvious next step towards growth. “Key members of our team are already based in the UAE, so it makes perfect sense to formalise our presence in Dubai. Operating under the umbrella of IHC will allow us to solidify existing relationships within the region and build new partnerships. Also, we look forward to being part of a vibrant community of fellow NGOs and humanitarian organisations that play such a vital role in providing emergency relief and development solutions in the region and beyond.”
Footage courtesy of www.ihc.ae
The International Humanitarian City (IHC) was founded in 2003 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai. It is the only non-profit, independent, humanitarian free-zone Authority hosting a community of members comprised of UN organisations, international non-governmental organisations, intergovernmental organisations, and commercial companies.
Project Maji featured at 1:10 - 2:30 (Footage courtesy of www.ihc.ae)
Today IHC plays a pivotal role in facilitating first responses to crises at a global level efficiently. Based in Dubai, IHC has a strategic location allowing rapid relief to be within reach in all corners of the world. Moreover, IHC enables its members and aid agencies to conduct fundraising activities in the United Arab Emirates with the partnership and support of the city to obtain government approval.
Project Maji is currently operating 63 solar-powered water kiosks in Sub-Saharan Africa and is entering a rapid growth phase. In 2019, we received the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award 2019 (third place), an award supervised by UAE Water Aid (Suqia). The prize encourages research centres, individuals, and innovators around the world to find sustainable and innovative solutions to combat the global water crisis. This momentous milestone inspired us to accelerate the registration process with IHC and formalise our presence in the UAE, from which we manage global fundraising and development efforts.
