The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' gift of dates arrives in Somalia to support 120,000 beneficiaries
An annual Saudi initiative to promote Islamic solidarity
As part of its ongoing humanitarian and diplomatic efforts, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, delivered a gift of premium dates from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, to the Federal Republic of Somalia. This initiative is part of a long-established annual program aimed at supporting Muslims worldwide during the holy month of Ramadan, and embodies the spirit of generosity and solidarity that the Kingdom upholds.
The handover ceremony took place at the headquarters of the Islamic Solidarity Center, in the presence of the Deputy Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Djibouti, Mr. Saeed Al-Qahtani, and the Religious Attaché in Djibouti, Mr. Saad Abdul Aziz Al-Safyan. Also present from the Somali side were the Head of the Somali Scholars' Council, Dr. Yusuf Ali Ainte, along with a number of Somali officials, reflecting the great importance both sides attach to this fraternal initiative.
Historical background and cultural significance
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Gift of Dates program is one of the most prominent humanitarian initiatives implemented by the Kingdom annually as the holy month of Ramadan approaches. This program dates back decades, and this gift has become a tradition reflecting the deep ties that bind the Kingdom to Islamic countries. Dates hold special religious and cultural significance in the Islamic world; they are the food Muslims prefer to break their fast with, following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and they are also a rich source of energy and nutrients.
Saudi-Somali relations are based on deep-rooted historical ties of religious brotherhood and shared Arab identity. The Kingdom has consistently stood by Somalia in various circumstances, providing humanitarian and development assistance to contribute to stability and progress in this brotherly nation, which has faced significant challenges over the years, including drought and food insecurity.
Impact of the initiative at the local and international levels
The amount of dates allocated to the Republic of Somalia this year is 30 tons, and it is expected that approximately 120,000 people and families across the country will benefit from this aid. This assistance will have a direct and tangible impact on the lives of the most vulnerable families, providing them with an essential food item for their iftar meals throughout the holy month, thus easing their financial burdens and enabling them to dedicate themselves to worship.
On the diplomatic front, this initiative strengthens bilateral relations between Riyadh and Mogadishu and underscores the Kingdom’s role as a key player in supporting stability and development in the Horn of Africa. It also highlights the humanitarian aspect of the Kingdom’s foreign policy and is part of its broader efforts in the field of “humanitarian diplomacy.” This year, the program encompasses more than 120 countries worldwide, solidifying the Kingdom’s position as a leading nation in charitable and humanitarian work on the international stage and reflecting its leadership’s commitment to addressing the needs of Muslims wherever they may be.
