Onjo Simson

  President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has inaugurated the Zayed Humanitarian Legacy Initiative, dedicating a remarkable AED 20 billion to benefit needy communities worldwide, as a sincere homage to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. This significant project honors Sheikh Zayed's steadfast dedication to humanitarian causes and coincides with Zayed Humanitarian Day, which is observed on the 20th anniversary of his passing. This program is evidence of Sheikh Zayed's ongoing legacy of support and generosity. His visionary leadership and caring nature continue to inspire generations. Among the key components of the initiative is the "Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative," a testament to Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's dedication to addressing global water scarcity. Additionally, the "Mothers' Endowment" campaign, spearheaded by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, h...

  In a landmark move, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kenya have solidified their commitment to advancing digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives through the signing of an Investment Memorandum. This strategic agreement, facilitated by the UAE Ministry of Investment and the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy of the Republic of Kenya, aims to foster collaboration in the realm of technology-driven development. With a focus on bolstering digitalisation efforts, the memorandum seeks to explore investments in key areas such as digital infrastructure, AI services, and the development of data centre projects, reflecting the shared vision of both nations for a digitally empowered future. Driving Growth in Kenya's Digital Economy Kenya's burgeoning digital economy has emerged as a beacon of growth, propelled by the rapid expansion of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. With an impressive annual growth ra...

  In a landmark achievement, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has once again claimed the top spot in the Global Entrepreneurship Index (GEI), marking its third consecutive year at the pinnacle of global entrepreneurship. This year's victory holds special significance as the UAE achieved its highest-ever score on the index, an impressive 7.7, surpassing numerous developed economies on the list. This remarkable feat solidifies the UAE's position as the premier destination for starting and conducting business on a global scale. His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, expressed pride in the UAE's achievement, emphasizing the country's commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem. He stated, "We are proud that the UAE has ranked first in the world in developing the entrepreneurship system and consolidating its position as the economy that most supports entrepreneurship and the first destination for establishing projects and commercial activ...

  In a continued effort to support the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip, the Joint Operations Command of the Ministry of Defence announced the successful execution of the 17th humanitarian aid airdrop under the "Birds of Goodness" operation. This joint initiative saw two C17 aircraft from the UAE Air Force and a C130 aircraft from the Egyptian Air Force participating in the airdrop operation. The aid, totaling 79 tonnes of food and relief supplies, was dispersed over inaccessible isolated areas in the northern Gaza Strip, bringing the total aid delivered through airdrops to an impressive 743 tonnes since the operation's inception. The "Birds of Goodness" operation is a crucial component of "Operation Chivalrous Knight 3," aimed at providing essential support to the Palestinian people in Gaza. Through these coordinated efforts, the UAE and Egypt reaffirm their unwavering commitment to humanitarian aid and relief efforts in the region. The consistent...

  In a display of solidarity and compassion, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has once again extended a helping hand to Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict. A plane carrying 50 tonnes of food supplies has been dispatched to Ukraine, underscoring the UAE's commitment to providing relief aid to those affected by the crisis. This humanitarian initiative, executed during the holy month of Ramadan, reflects the UAE's dedication to supporting the basic needs of civilians and alleviating their suffering during challenging times. The aid shipment, destined for Ukraine, was sent via Poland under the supervision of the UAE's mission in the country. This gesture is part of the UAE's broader relief efforts, which include a $100 million donation and the establishment of an air bridge to deliver essential supplies to affected areas. Maryam bint Mohammed Al Muhairi, Head of the International Affairs Office at the Presidential Office, emphasized the UAE's unwavering commitment to pro...

  UAE Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan's recent meeting with Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky in Prague underscored the commitment of both nations to bolster bilateral relations and enhance cooperation across various sectors. As part of Sheikh Abdullah’s working visit to Prague, the discussions centered on exploring avenues to further develop UAE-Czech cooperation in fields such as economics, investment, and development. The emphasis was on fostering mutual benefit and advancing the interests of both countries and their people. During the meeting, Sheikh Abdullah highlighted the UAE's strong commitment to strengthening ties with the Czech Republic, commending the ongoing progress in joint cooperation. Minister Lipavsky warmly welcomed Sheikh Abdullah and his delegation, expressing Czech Republic's keenness to expand cooperation relations with the UAE across multiple levels. Additionally, the two ministers engaged in discussions on recent developments ...

  In today's interconnected world, investing in women isn't just about economic growth—it's a fundamental human rights issue. Despite progress, gender inequality persists, perpetuated by global economic systems that often prioritize profit over the well-being of individuals. Women bear the brunt of these inequalities, facing barriers to economic agency and autonomy due to factors like unpaid care work, pay disparities, and limited access to resources and opportunities. Furthermore, the impacts of climate change exacerbate these challenges, disproportionately affecting women and girls worldwide. As the world grapples with the consequences of unbridled consumption and unsustainable practices, it's crucial to recognize the interconnectedness of economic, social, and environmental factors in shaping women's experiences and opportunities. Investing in women isn't just about closing the gender gap—it's about creating a more equitable and sustainable future for all...

  The UAE Air Force and the Royal Jordanian Air Force worked together to carry out a humanitarian airdrop of food items over the Gaza Strip in an uplifting show of cooperation. 22 tonnes of vital supplies were delivered as a result of their combined efforts, demonstrating their continued commitment to helping the Palestinian people, particularly in isolated regions like the northern Gaza Strip. This program, which is a component of Operation Chivalrous Knight 3, emphasizes the continued commitment to giving Gaza's people much-needed support. The UAE should be commended for its ceaseless efforts to aid people worldwide, especially in Gaza. Being a major contributor to humanitarian crises across the globe, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has continuously exhibited its dedication to mitigating suffering and promoting stability in conflict-affected areas. With a remarkable record of providing relief up to 92 billion dirhams between 2018 and 2022, the United Arab Emirates is a leader in ...

  The successful connection of the fourth unit of the South Korea-built Barakah nuclear power plant to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) power transmission grid marks a significant milestone in the UAE's quest for sustainable energy. Operated by Korea Electric Power Corp. (KEPCO), Unit 4 of the Barakah plant has commenced operations, delivering the first megawatts of carbon-free electricity. With further tests underway, commercial operation is slated to begin later this year, contributing an additional 1,400 megawatts of zero-carbon emission electricity to the UAE's grid. This achievement solidifies South Korea's position in the global nuclear energy landscape, marking its first export of a homegrown commercial atomic power plant. The Barakah plant, located 270 kilometers west of Abu Dhabi, is the result of a $20 billion contract won by a KEPCO-led consortium in 2009. Once all four units are operational, the plant is poised to meet up to 25% of the UAE's electricity needs,...

  Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi and Emirati President Mohammed Bin Zayed recently convened in Cairo for a pivotal one-day meeting on March 23rd. The discussions primarily centered on enhancing the enduring collaboration between the two nations across various sectors, including economic, investment, developmental, and political domains. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering regional stability and fostering mutual prosperity. Focused Efforts on Gaza Ceasefire and Humanitarian Aid A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing regional concerns, particularly the urgent need to broker a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. Al-Sisi and Bin Zayed emphasized the importance of delivering substantial humanitarian aid to Palestinians affected by Israeli airstrikes. Their shared commitment to a two-state solution underscored the imperative of fostering justice, security, and stability in the region. UAE's Vital Role in Egypt's Economic Recovery The UAE...

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made a significant commitment to Africa's energy transition, pledging $4.5 billion to support green energy initiatives across the continent. UAE's Climate Change Minister, Mariam Almheiri, emphasizes the country's readiness to provide both financial resources and technological expertise to aid Africa in its transformative journey. With decades of experience in developing green energy and industry projects, including some of the world's largest solar parks, the UAE is well-positioned to contribute to Africa's energy transition. This substantial investment demonstrates UAE's dedication to advancing sustainable development in Africa and reflects its strong political and economic engagement with the continent. The pledge, spearheaded by key UAE entities such as the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, Etihad Credit Insurance, Masdar, and AMEA Power, highlights the country's commitment to leveraging its resources for positive impac...

In a bold move that underscores its commitment to fostering economic growth and development in Africa, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has pledged substantial investment totaling approximately $97.3 billion over the years 2022 and 2023. This significant investment marks a pivotal moment in UAE-Africa relations and highlights the UAE's dedication to deepening its trade ties with countries across the continent. The UAE's pledge of $52.8 billion to Africa in 2022, followed by an additional $44.5 billion in 2023, demonstrates the nation's unwavering commitment to supporting Africa's socio-economic advancement. Notably, a recent $35 billion investment pledge to Egypt has captured global attention, signaling the UAE's keen interest in driving progress and prosperity in key African markets. With ambitious plans to open up markets and increase competition, the UAE's proactive stance paves the way for mutual prosperity and shared growth. As Minister Thani Al Zeyoudi aptly...

  In a region grappling with water scarcity, innovative technology is emerging as a beacon of hope. The UAE, renowned for its advancements in sustainability, is at the forefront of this transformation. Khalifa University's pioneering work in producing water from air using solar-powered generators is a game-changer. With the capacity to yield up to 5,000 litres of water daily, these generators promise a sustainable solution to the Middle East's water challenges. This groundbreaking technology not only addresses the pressing issue of water scarcity but also aligns with global efforts towards eco-friendly solutions. By harnessing solar energy to extract water vapour from the air, Khalifa University is paving the way for a more sustainable future. With the looming threat of absolute water scarcity in the region, innovations like these offer a ray of hope, providing a pathway towards water security for generations to come. As the world commemorates World Water Day 2024, initiatives ...

  His Majesty spoke with the President of the United Arab Emirates at a high-level diplomatic gathering in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the critical need to combat radical settlement violence against Palestinians in the West Bank. The talks, which took place at Al Shati Palace, focused on the two countries' strong bilateral relationships and their shared commitment to improving cooperation in a number of areas. Concerning regional issues, the leaders underlined the necessity of an early and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, placing a high priority on the protection of civilians and the provision of vital aid. During the meeting, His Majesty emphasized the necessity of halting violations of Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, advocating for the preservation of sacred spaces. Both leaders advocated for a political resolution to the Palestinian issue based on the two-state solution, ensuring the fulfillment of Palestinians' legitimate rights. Expressing mutual interest in mainta...

  Prime Minister of Jordan, Bisher Khasawneh, and UAE Investment Minister, Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa Al Hammadi, recently convened in Amman to discuss mutual economic ventures. Both sides reiterated their countries' commitment to enhancing cooperation in investment and development sectors. The discussions highlighted the progress of investment projects outlined in the Memoranda of Understanding signed during His Majesty King Abdullah's visit to the UAE last November, amounting to approximately $5.5 billion. During the meeting, Khasawneh and Al Hammadi emphasized the significant potential of these projects to bolster bilateral cooperation, stimulate investment environments, create economic opportunities, and generate employment. The deep-rooted bilateral relations between Jordan and the UAE were reaffirmed, with both parties expressing their dedication to exploring new avenues of cooperation. These efforts aim to further strengthen economic ties and foster mutual growth and prosper...

  Victor Shuleshko, the visionary mind behind Green Future, has introduced a groundbreaking approach to agriculture in the United Arab Emirates. With a background in agricultural lighting and a passion for maximizing efficiency, Shuleshko's company has constructed a 600-square-meter vertical farm for salad cultivation in the UAE, with plans to expand into tulip cultivation. His patented lighting inventions and automated farming systems are setting new standards for productivity and sustainability. Driven by a desire to push the boundaries of traditional farming methods, Shuleshko's vertical farm in Lviv stands as a testament to his commitment to innovation. This fully automated facility operates without human intervention, utilizing advanced systems to control watering, fertilization, and plant analysis. As a result, crops grow faster and more efficiently than under natural conditions, leading to significant savings in fertilizer usage and increased production yields. While ver...

  In a recent UAE Cabinet meeting chaired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, several groundbreaking initiatives were discussed, showcasing the nation's commitment to innovation and progress. Among the key highlights were advancements in the labor market, with the UAE ranking first globally in the lack of labor disputes and third globally in digital skills. Additionally, the review of the 'Operation 300 Billion' project, aimed at boosting the industrial sector's contribution to the GDP, and the approval of a national policy on biofuels underscore the country's dedication to sustainable development. Beyond domestic endeavors, the Cabinet's deliberations extended to international engagements and agreements, highlighting the UAE's commitment to global collaboration and diplomacy. From comprehensive economic partnerships with Serbia and Georgia to agreements on taxation and extradition, the nation's efforts to foster mutually beneficial re...

His Excellency João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola, was cordially received in Abu Dhabi by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, in a major diplomatic exchange. The meeting, which took place on March 18, emphasized how committed both countries are to deepening their bilateral relationship and looking into opportunities for cross-sectoral cooperation. The friendly connection between the UAE and Angola is reflected in this exchange, which also emphasizes their common goals of regional stability and sustainable development. During their discussions, both leaders emphasized the importance of enhancing collaboration in key areas such as economy, trade, investment, development, and renewable energy. Their dialogue centered on identifying strategic opportunities that would contribute to the advancement of their respective nations while fostering mutual prosperity. This exchange of ideas signals a promising traje...

  Abu Dhabi's hospitals provide a helping hand to people in need, acting as rays of hope amidst the mayhem of battle. These hospitals have provided vital medical care and assistance to 1154 patients and their companions since the start of the war. The 13th group, which consists of 98 people, is one of the most recent arrivals. Among them are 40 children who have burns and serious injuries, along with cancer patients who need immediate medical attention. They become the 58th family member to join the ranks of individuals in the UAE receiving aid. Under the directive of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, the nation has pledged to treat 1000 injured Palestinian children and 1000 cancer patients, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to humanitarian aid. The Emirates Humanitarian City plays a pivotal role in this endeavor, ensuring a seamless transition for patients and their families. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and staffed by dedicated professionals, the city provi...

  Climate change is posing significant challenges to global agriculture, impacting key crops essential for food security worldwide. Extreme weather events, including droughts, heatwaves, and wildfires, are disrupting agricultural production, leading to reduced yields and rising food prices. The vulnerability of crops such as coffee, olive oil, bananas, maize, and wheat to changing climate conditions highlights the urgent need for adaptation strategies to mitigate the risks posed by climate change. In regions like the Middle East and North Africa, where coffee is a vital cash crop, rising temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns threaten to shrink suitable growing areas, leading to a potential coffee crisis. Similarly, the Mediterranean region, known for its olive oil production, has witnessed significant declines in yields due to extreme heat and drought, resulting in soaring prices and shifts towards alternative vegetable oils. Additionally, staple crops like bananas, maize, and...

Dubai's groundbreaking Dubai Can initiative has achieved a monumental feat, reducing single-use plastic water bottle usage by nearly 18 million in just two years. Spearheaded by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, this sustainability drive has transformed the city's landscape, promoting environmental consciousness and paving the way for a more sustainable future. With 50 public water stations strategically placed across Dubai, residents and visitors have access to clean and safe drinking water, encouraging the adoption of refillable bottles and minimizing plastic waste. This initiative not only aligns with Dubai's vision of becoming a leading sustainable destination but also contributes to global efforts in achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals and UAE NetZero 2050 targets. As Dubai continues its journey towards sustainability, the Dubai Can initiative plans to expand further, with additional water fountains set to be installed citywide. This collective e...

  The arrival of the Open Arms ship at the Gaza coast signals a ray of hope for the besieged territory amidst a looming humanitarian crisis. Departing from Cyprus with 200 tonnes of food supplies, the vessel represents the first maritime aid corridor initiated by Cyprus, with backing from the European Union, the UK, and the US. The desperate situation in Gaza, compounded by a near-total blockade imposed by Israel, has prompted international efforts to deliver aid directly to the region, bypassing logistical challenges. Aid agencies warn of an impending famine in Gaza, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance. The approval of the aid corridor by Israel marks a significant step in addressing the pressing needs of Gaza's 2.4 million inhabitants. However, challenges remain, including ensuring the safe delivery and distribution of aid amidst ongoing security concerns. The international community's response, including the mobilization of additional aid shipments, unde...

  With the directives from His Highness the President of the State, the UAE is intensifying its humanitarian aid efforts for the Palestinian people in Gaza during the holy month of Ramadan. As the humanitarian crisis worsens in Gaza, the UAE is stepping up to provide emergency relief through various fundraising campaigns across the emirates. Two key initiatives, Dubai Cares and the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC), are leading the charge in offering assistance to the besieged territory. Dubai Cares has launched the "Gaza in Our Hearts" campaign, focusing on delivering hot meals, food baskets, and essential supplies like waterproof tents to Gaza. Collaborating with Anera and other partners, Dubai Cares aims to open aid corridors for the urgent delivery of life-saving supplies. Meanwhile, the Emirates Red Crescent's Ramadan Continuous Giving Campaign is providing support not only to needy families in the UAE but also with a particular focus on Gaza, aiming to distribute 10,000 i...

  In a recent ruling, UAE court handed down a sentence to Ahmed Al-Atoum, a Jordanian citizen, for cybercrimes stemming from critical Facebook posts about Jordanian authorities. Charged under cybercrime laws, Mr. Al-Atoum was found guilty of actions detrimental to political relations with a foreign country and dissemination of false information endangering state security. Despite his hearings, the court maintained that his actions violated national laws and international norms, resulting in a 10-year imprisonment term and deportation upon completion. The UAE court's decision to address cybercrimes underscores the importance of safeguarding national interests and diplomatic relations. While freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it must be exercised responsibly, especially concerning sensitive political matters. By upholding laws against online activities that threaten security and stability, the ruling promotes accountability and protects the integrity of public discourse. T...

  The United Arab Emirates Space Agency (UAESA) is reaching for the stars in a powerful partnership with NASA. This collaboration extends beyond their recent announcement to work together on the Artemis missions, aiming to return humans to the Moon.  The deepening US-UAE partnership highlights the remarkable achievements the UAE has made in space exploration within a short timeframe. Building on this momentum, the UAE will contribute to the development of NASA's Gateway, humanity's first lunar space station.  This project signifies a major step forward for both nations, as noted by NASA administrator Bill Nelson: "the partnership between the United States and the United Arab Emirates is strong and growing stronger. Together, we are taking giant leaps in science and technology that will further the Artemis campaign, and the future of human space exploration." The UAE's role in space exploration goes beyond the Gateway project.  Their collaboration with NASA extends...

  Abu Dhabi is making bold strides into the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) with the establishment of MGX, a new investment firm dedicated to advancing AI technologies in the UAE and beyond. With a hefty investment target of $100 billion, MGX is set to become a major player in the global AI landscape, focusing on AI infrastructure, semiconductors, and core AI technologies and applications. This ambitious move underscores Abu Dhabi's commitment to innovation and underscores the region's emergence as a key hub for technological advancement. Mubadala and G42, two prominent entities in the UAE's investment and technology sectors, are pivotal partners in the formation of MGX. Backed by Abu Dhabi's government, MGX will operate independently to pursue strategic investment opportunities in AI, leveraging the nation's existing investments in the field. Led by His Highness Sheikh Tahnoun Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and esteemed industry leaders, MGX is poised to drive significa...