Royal Court Chief launches initiative to empower underprivileged families in Aqaba, Wadi Araba

The Royal Court Chief and head of the committee to follow up on implementation of royal initiatives Yousef Issawi led a ceremony to launch the royal initiative for the empowerment of underprivileged and low-income families in Aqaba and Wadi Araba.

The initiative is to improve the standard of living for poor families and those with limited income by providing them with financial and technical support, as well as feasibility studies, to establish small-size businesses.

The initiative focuses on empowering women and youth, as well as building the capacities of local partner agencies involved in the implementation of the initiative.

During the virtual ceremony at the Royal Hashemite Court (RHC), agreements were signed between the Jordan River Foundation (JRF), as the body that supervises the implementation of the initiative, in addition to 16 other organizations in Aqaba and Wadi Araba.

The initiative will work with approximately 213 families in Aqaba and 30 in Wadi Araba. A 'revolving fund mechanism' will be utilised in order for beneficiaries to refinance other enterprises for more families. This aims to expand the segment of beneficiary families who benefit from setting up small income-generating projects.

Issawi pointed out that securing a decent life for all Jordanians is a priority set by His Majesty King Abdullah II.

The Royal Court Chief said the support should be contribute to developing local communities and enable them to make a difference, while promoting the culture of self-reliance.

The Minister of Social Development Ayman Mufleh said the initiative highlights the importance of self-employment programmes that help enhance productivity and create job opportunities. He added that the ministry will provide the necessary facilities and support to charities.