In a major update on humanitarian operations in the country, the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) announced its programs in Syria have benefited over 1.1 million people across nine key governorates. The Foundation’s Executive Director in Syria, Dr. Muhammad Abido, highlighted a strong focus on supporting women and vulnerable communities, noting that 55% of beneficiaries are women, reflecting a gender-inclusive approach to aid delivery.
AKF’s interventions have played a critical role in addressing food insecurity. According to Abido, over 300,000 individuals received food assistance and emergency support. This includes food parcels, vouchers and cash assistance provided to nearly 37,000 families across several areas, including Salamiyah, Tartous, Latakia, Damascus, Masyaf, Qadmus, Homs and displacement camps in Idlib.
Safe Shelter and Disaster Preparedness
Beyond food assistance, the Foundation has supported displaced communities through safe evacuation operations and the establishment of appropriate shelters. These efforts directly benefited approximately 7,000 people in Aleppo, Damascus, Tartous, Latakia and Hama.
AKF has also strengthened local resilience by delivering emergency preparedness and response services to over 280,000 people. This included implementing disaster management plans, pre-positioning relief supplies and mobilizing community emergency response teams.
Strengthening Civil Society
Community empowerment remains a central pillar of AKF’s strategy. Abido stated that the Foundation has supported in excess of 340 civil society organizations, including newly established groups, some launched with direct input from AKF, and pre-existing entities.
Support includes training, technical assistance, institutional development and financial backing. These partner organizations, including national NGOs, farmer associations, parent-teacher groups and cooperatives, have collectively extended services to over 200,000 people.
Community-Led Development Projects
As part of its long-term development approach, AKF implemented 60 community-driven projects valued at over $2 million. These initiatives span the health and education sectors, infrastructure rehabilitation, income-generation programs and social services.
Abido emphasized these projects have had a direct impact on over 170,000 individuals, highlighting the Foundation’s emphasis on locally led and managed development efforts aimed at promoting sustainable recovery across Syria.
