Sheikh Mohammed announces completion of 1 Billion Meals campaign

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, has announced the completion of the 1 Billion Meals project.

The scheme was launched in Ramadan 2022 to provide one billion meals to those in need worldwide. It reached its target this month, with meals distributed across 65 countries.

“Three years ago we launched a humanitarian project aimed at distributing 1 billion meals to those in need globally," said Sheikh Mohammed. "The project has fully achieved its goal this month, distributing one billion meals across 65 countries. An additional 260 million meals will be distributed over the course of next year.

“We have also established sustainable real estate endowments to ensure the continued provision of food aid in the years to come.”

The initiative followed on from the previous 10 Million Meals and 100 Million Meals campaigns launched in 2020 and 2021.

The project aimed to provide nutritional support to underprivileged individuals, families, women, and children, reflecting the UAE's inclusive approach to humanitarianism, which offers assistance and aid to all communities without discrimination.

In 2023, the One Billion Meals Endowment campaign was launched to raise funds that would support a long-term, sustainable approach to helping those in need all over the world.

Mohammed Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Secretary General of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI), praised the role played by partners, including UN agencies and regional and local organisations, in implementing the initiative.

“We remain committed to strengthening our strategic partnerships locally, regionally and globally to support those most in need and create sustainable solutions to address food challenges," he said.

"The MBRGI's commitment to eradicating hunger extends beyond providing meals; it encompasses empowering communities to develop comprehensive strategies to combat poverty and malnutrition. This aligns with the MBRGI’s vision for sustainable development and is being actively pursued by a wide range of UN agencies and regional and local partners."