The Ministry of Emergency and Disaster Management and the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) in Syria signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing cooperation in disaster preparedness, humanitarian response, and sustainable development.
The agreement was signed by Dr. Ahmad Akziz, Deputy Minister of Emergency and Disaster Management, and Dr. Muhannad Obeido, Executive Director of the AKF in Syria.
Officials said the memorandum plays a key role in unifying efforts and strengthening national capacities to respond to emergencies in line with the priorities of the Syrian people and international frameworks such as the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and the Core Humanitarian Standard.
Building Capacity and Engaging Communities
The MoU focuses on improving local preparedness through knowledge exchange, training programs, and risk assessment support. It also seeks to strengthen early warning systems, improve response coordination, and expand technical cooperation. Long-term goals include sustainable recovery initiatives and the development of national policies that promote good governance and local engagement.
Dr. Akziz said the agreement reflects the ministry’s “commitment to unifying efforts with our partners at the AKF to build a strong and conscious society capable of overcoming future challenges.” He added that cooperation with the foundation, “with its extensive experience, opens new horizons for developing and improving response systems that meet international standards.”
Mr. Ghatfan Ajoub, the AKF’s resident representative in Syria, emphasized the importance of collaboration among all sectors and experts to create joint strategies and plans that “enable local communities to optimally prepare for and respond to emergencies with the highest standards.”
Aga Khan’s Broader Work in Syria
The Aga Khan Foundation has long been involved in humanitarian and development projects across Syria. Through a strategic partnership with the Syrian government, Agha Khan has a strategic partnership with the Syrian government and implements innovative projects targeting the education and health sectors.
Among its current projects are the Virtual Prosperity Accelerator (VAP), which supports young entrepreneurs with training and funding opportunities, and the Agriculture Support in Rural Communities in Tartous initiative, aimed at revitalizing local production.
The foundation is also implementing the Community-Based Solar Energy (CBSE) project, which focuses on installing small, off-grid photovoltaic (PV) plants in Homs and Hama to strengthen energy resilience and sustainability in rural areas.
By combining technical expertise with grassroots engagement, the Ministry of Emergency and Disaster Management and the Aga Khan Foundation hope to build a model of cooperation that enhances disaster readiness, supports local recovery, and contributes to Syria’s long-term stability.
