No homage is big enough to celebrate the achievements of Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, one of the founding fathers of the UAE. Today has been labelled as Emirati Humanitarian Day. The events will be held in the memory of Shaikh Zayed, on his ninth death anniversary. In keeping with his generous spirit, from which millions have benefited, several charitable initiatives will be announced, while many similar projects are already under way.
Shaikh Zayed left behind a rich legacy, almost impossible to match, but from which useful lessons have been absorbed. His humanitarian temperament is exemplified in the actions of several charities that have been formed in the country and the care, across multiple platforms, they have provided to millions across the world. This resonates with the UAE’s image as a peaceful country that promotes the values of peaceful co-existence among nations.
The rulers of the seven emirates stand at the forefront whilst delivering this message. Putting Shaikh Zayed’s influence in perspective, His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, said, “President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, his brothers and all of us follow in his footsteps to further develop our country and achieve prosperity for our people.” The formation of a number of charitable institutions by the UAE’s rulers reflects the tenets of wisdom, vision, generosity and compassion. There is no better occasion to showcase this than during Ramadan.
These values must now percolate to every person — national and expatriate. They must stand up and be counted on to display their humanitarian spirit. The values of a nation are only as good as the morals of its people. The rulers have shown the way, it is time now for us to absorb these positive lessons and become ambassadors. Though his achievements will be impossible to match, we must realise that there is a bit of Zayed in all of us. This will help spur us into action.
