Dubai: The UAE Food Bank (EFB), an initiative within the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), announced its 2024 annual data revealing that its food aid initiatives reached 28.9 million beneficiaries globally. This represents a 55% increase from 2023, surpassing its performance targets and strategic objectives by over 100%.
According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE Food Bank made progress in its environmental sustainability efforts by diverting 5,466 tonnes of food from landfill. This effort supports the UAE's goal to reduce food waste by 30% by 2027, contributing to reduced environmental pollution and emissions from food waste. By redistributing surplus food effectively, the Bank aligns with global sustainability goals and promotes responsible food management.
The Bank reinforced its global partnerships by establishing 30 strategic agreements and memoranda of understanding with government entities, humanitarian organizations, and food industry leaders. These collaborations expanded the Food Bank's reach and impact, solidifying its role in global food security initiatives.
As part of its emergency relief efforts, the UAE Food Bank delivered 166.7 tonnes of food to the Emirates Red Crescent, mainly for Gaza during Ramadan under the 'Compassion for Gaza' campaign. Additionally, under the 'UAE With You, Lebanon' campaign, 12.08 tonnes of food aid were sent to Lebanon, highlighting the UAE's commitment to international humanitarian relief.
Local and international food organization donors increased to 1,214, marking a 52% rise in participation. Alongside direct food assistance, the Food Bank conducted 157 awareness programs involving 4,357 participants, promoting responsible food consumption and waste reduction. The Bank expanded its initiatives in 2024, engaging approximately 5,000 volunteers and participants in surplus food management and distribution.
Manal Obaid bin Yaroof, Head of the Executive Team of the UAE Food Bank, emphasized the importance of the Bank's humanitarian efforts, reflecting the UAE's leadership's philanthropic vision. She mentioned that the Bank operates under the directives of Her Highness Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, ensuring critical food aid reaches those in need globally. She stressed the organization's commitment to managing surplus food and reducing food waste sustainably, aligning with its long-term humanitarian goals.
In 2024, the UAE Food Bank responded to various global humanitarian situations with redistributed surplus food, donated cooked meals, and essential food parcels. By December 2024, the Bank distributed 16,923 tonnes of food, including vegetables, fruits, dairy products, meat, grains, pasta, and grocery staples.
Throughout the year, the UAE Food Bank actively participated in prominent industry and humanitarian events, including the Dubai International Food Safety Conference, Gulfood Manufacturing, and the World Government Summit. It also engaged in national humanitarian initiatives like the Suqia Water Initiative, the Eid Al Adha Initiative, and the Billion Meals Endowment.
The UAE Food Bank operates under its 2023-2027 strategic plan, focusing on expanding humanitarian initiatives, forming partnerships for surplus food management, and supporting food security strategies. The Bank collaborates with Al Naama, government agencies, and global food banks to enhance surplus food management and aid distribution.
Since its inception in 2017, the UAE Food Bank has distributed over 96 million meals, conducted 524 events, workshops, and campaigns, and established a network of 262 strategic partners. It has also signed five MoUs with regional food banks, strengthening its leadership in humanitarian food aid and surplus food management.
With a clear future vision, the UAE Food Bank remains committed to expanding its global reach, reducing food wastage, and ensuring efficient food delivery to those in need in the UAE and worldwide.
