Suqia trustees discuss initiatives, goals

Initiatives to fight poverty and illness, leadership initiatives and community empowerment programs were among the items discussed at a recent meeting of the board of trustees of Suqia, the United Arab Emirates' Water Aid Foundation, at the the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority's (DEWA) offices.

Suqia Chair and DEWA CEO Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, who headed the meeting, said Suqia was formed as one of a group of global initiatives developed by Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice president and prime minister of the United Arab Emirates and emir of Dubai.

Al Tayer outlined Al Maktoum's plans, which were aimed at decreasing poverty and illness throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council region as well as increasing public awareness of Arabic culture. Al Maktoum has been a vocal advocate of humanitarian and social programs that incorporate sustainable, eco-friendly solutions regarding water resources.

Also covered at the meeting were updates on Suqia's ongoing research and development projects and water technology advances.

Humaid Rashid Al Shamsi, Suqia's deputy secretary-general for international aid and vice chairman of the board as well as its acting executive director, stressed the need for media support in getting the word out about Suqia initiatives and goals.

Suqia officials said plans were to enter projects in the 2016 Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Awards contest, which will take place later this year. Projects can be entered in various categories, including Innovative Projects for Companies, Innovative Studies and Research and Young Innovators.