UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, in cooperation with the Global Charity Association for Development (Tanmeia Foundation), and Bukhamseen Holding Group, organized a briefing session addressing the crisis in Lebanon and the humanitarian needs of displaced Lebanese people who were forced to flee their homes due to Israeli airstrikes and escalating conflict in the country.
The session which took place at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, was attended by UNHCR’s partners in the private sector, philanthropists, social media influencers, and media representatives. Attendees were briefed on the latest updates regarding the critical humanitarian situation in Lebanon, as well as UNHCR’s efforts in collaboration with the government, UN agencies, and local partners to provide aid and respond to the needs of affected populations. These efforts include improving communal shelters, distributing essential relief items to displaced Lebanese families, and providing cash assistance.
In her speech, Nisreen Rubaian, UNHCR Representative to Kuwait, emphasized the importance of unifying efforts during this challenging period, and stated:
“The situation in Lebanon is dire, and in winter, the displaced families are facing increasing challenges to ensure safety and warmth for their children. Today, we gather to send a message of solidarity and hope. We are grateful for our partnership with Tanmeia Charity and deeply value the continuous support from the Kuwaiti community, particularly Bukhamseen Holding Group, as a reflection of solidarity and standing with those affected by humanitarian crises.”
The Lebanese government estimates that more than 1.2 million people have been displaced, with many forced to seek refuge in public open spaces, struggling to find safe shelter and meet basic needs, especially relief items such as tents, blankets, sleeping mats, healthcare, food, and psychosocial support.
On his part, Imad Bukhamseen, representing Bukhamseen Holding Group, highlighted the private sector’s role in supporting humanitarian response, saying:
“Today’s event reaffirmed that the role of companies extends beyond financial support—it’s about our commitment to creating a positive impact that inspires other businesses and individuals to step forward and contribute to humanitarian relief efforts. We are proud of our partnership with UNHCR and Tanmeia Foundation, and we look forward to strengthening this vital role and expanding fruitful collaborations to support forcibly displaced persons worldwide.”
Dr. Nasser Al-Ajmi, Chairman of the Board of Tanmeia Charity, underscored “Kuwait’s leading role in supporting and aiding the Lebanese people”. He noted Kuwait’s efforts in organizing numerous humanitarian airlifts and opening avenues for Kuwaiti charitable organizations, including Tanmeia Charity, to deliver emergency aid. He emphasized that these initiatives “reflect Kuwait’s steadfast commitment to its humanitarian approach, rooted in values of brotherhood and solidarity.”Dr. Al-Ajmi added: “Achieving tangible impacts in such crises requires strengthening strategic partnerships among humanitarian organizations and various stakeholders. Joint collaboration contributes to comprehensive and effective responses that meet basic needs such as food, water, healthcare, and shelter.” Furthermore, he stressed that “unifying and integrating efforts not only alleviates the suffering of those affected but also brings about real and sustainable change in the lives of Lebanese people facing a severe humanitarian crisis.”
Last October, UNHCR launched its annual campaign in partnership with Tanmeia Charity to mobilize aid and donations to support winter humanitarian response efforts in Lebanon by providing essential relief items. Several private sector companies in Kuwait, such as Bukhamseen Holding Group and Chalhoub Group, supported the campaign by facilitating contributions through QR codes displayed in their affiliated restaurants and stores.
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