Post by : Meena Ariff

H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council, recently visited Al Rahma Women’s Village in the Puttalam region of Sri Lanka. The village supports widows, orphans, and their families, providing essential services to help them live with dignity and security.

During his visit, Sheikh Sultan toured the village to learn about the facilities available and the programs offered to residents. He first visited the clothing exhibition, where women display their handmade garments for women and children. These products are sold locally and even exported to nearby villages, helping women earn a steady income and support their families.

Skills Training for Women

The Deputy Ruler then visited the sewing and tailoring training rooms, where women are taught sewing, tailoring, and fabric cutting. These programs are designed to empower women with practical skills, offering them employment opportunities and financial independence. Such initiatives ensure that families can enjoy stability and security.

Healthcare Services

Sheikh Sultan also toured the village’s medical center, which includes an examination room, triage room, and a pharmacy providing essential medicines. These free services are crucial for maintaining the health of women and children and easing the difficult circumstances many families face.

He spent time with children in the village park, a safe space for orphans to play and enjoy recreational activities.

New Homes for Widows

A major highlight of the visit was the inauguration of 40 newly constructed homes for widowed women. Sheikh Sultan cut the ribbon to mark the handover of these homes. Each house includes a living room, two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a water tank. These homes provide a safe and stable environment, ensuring families have the basic services needed for a decent life.

This initiative reflects Sharjah’s humanitarian approach, showing compassion and solidarity with vulnerable families, and aims to secure a better future for children living in these households.

Education for Orphans

Sheikh Sultan then visited the village classrooms, which provide educational programs for orphaned students. These classes focus on religious knowledge and skill development, aiming to nurture children into responsible and capable members of society. The Deputy Ruler emphasized the importance of empowering children through education, ensuring they have opportunities to grow and succeed.

Community Worship

The visit concluded at the village mosque, a two-storey building where daily prayers are held. The mosque serves both the village residents and people from nearby communities, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual wellbeing.

Support from Sharjah Charity International

Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah Charity International, expressed gratitude to H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, for his continuous support. This support allows the charity to carry out projects worldwide, providing essential living conditions and uplifting communities.

He also praised the efforts of Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi in Sri Lanka, including initiatives like the foundation stone for Al Reeh Al Mursala Village, the mobile medical clinic, and his visit to Al Rahma Village.

Sharjah Charity International has worked closely with local partners to raise funds and donations, which have helped build homes, medical facilities, schools, and other essential services. Since 2012, the charity has established six villages in Sri Lanka, comprising 195 homes, two Qur’an memorisation centers, one school, three health centers, and three artesian wells, benefiting over 10,000 people.

Accompanying Officials

During the visit, Sheikh Sultan was accompanied by senior officials, including Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the UAE Ambassador to Sri Lanka, directors from media and charitable organizations, and other representatives supporting the humanitarian initiatives in Sri Lanka.