Rwanga Foundation brings hope to all

Ramadan is a special time in Kurdistan, with Muslims and non-Muslims alike often sharing in Iftar celebrations. This holy month can for some however be one of increased difficulty for various reasons including sickness, financial issues or unexpected hardship. The challenges they face can impact the lives of those around them in more ways than one.

The Rwanga Foundation, being the vision of its founder Idris Nechirvan Barzani, recognises this only too well. A central pillar of their work during this holy month has been the distribution of over 16,000 food baskets to the poor and needy of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, regardless of their religion, ethnicity or residence.

These food baskets of around 35 kilograms contain a variety of essential food items. Having been designed to sustain a family for an entire month, these baskets provide much needed relief for those facing economic hardship. The Foundation has taken measures to ensure the quality and nutritional value of all the items, reinforcing its focus on delivering effective and targeted aid where it is most needed.

The distribution campaign was initially launched in areas of Duhok and Zakho, with its strategic plan being to then expand into other cities, towns and areas of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. By reaching a wider population, Rwanga aims to maximise the impact of the initiative, ensuring that as many families as possible benefit from the support.

Social welfare is an important concept, and during Ramadan, there are several associated duties to be fulfilled. These include but are not limited to reconciliation, support for those less fortunate than ourselves, the payment of zakat and carrying out charitable acts. Such actions should and do extend beyond the holy month, and the proof of this can be seen in how the Rwanga Foundation has been at the forefront of both humanitarian acts and the promotion of shared responsibility in society for well over a decade. Over the last ten years, according to Rwanga, there have been nearly 500 humanitarian projects assisting beneficiaries into the millions, testament to the importance of the work carried out by them.

Since its establishment, the Foundation has played a leading role in social development, initially focusing on education before expanding into economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, and humanitarian assistance. Over the years, its varied initiatives have reached millions, including refugees, displaced individuals, and underserved communities.

Through its strategic approach to philanthropy, Rwanga continues to adapt and expand its projects to meet the needs of the communities it serves. Whether by providing educational resources or supporting economic opportunities, the Foundation remains dedicated to improving quality of life across the Kurdistan Region and further afield.

Beyond humanitarian aid and educational support in its various forms, Rwanga also views sustainability initiatives as key, actively working on climate change solutions and resource conservation projects. Environmental projects are a key part of its mission, including the planting of trees.

The key message is that communities can be strengthened through positive actions. The Rwanga Foundation’s Ramadan Food Aid initiative is more than just a distribution campaign. While immediate needs can be satisfied, and the lives of those at the margins of society made more comfortable, such initiatives have lasting impact over the longer term.