The Big Heart Foundation launches Dh7 million humanitarian projects in Zanzibar

Sharjah: The Big Heart Foundation (TBHF), under the leadership of Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of TBHF, has announced the launch of three transformative humanitarian projects in Zanzibar.

With a combined value of Dh7 million, the initiatives aim to directly and indirectly benefit more than 82,440 people by improving education, enhancing sanitation and hygiene, and empowering women and youth through economic development.

These initiatives reflect TBHF’s commitment to long-term, community-driven change and its strategic expansion across Africa. Implemented in partnership with the Zanzibar Maisha Bora Foundation and Save the Children, the projects address urgent development needs while laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and prosperous future for the people of Zanzibar.

This milestone follows Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi’s official visit to Zanzibar in September 2024, during which she engaged with local leaders and communities to assess key development challenges. Her discussions with Maryam Mwinyi, First Lady of Zanzibar and President of the Maisha Bora Foundation, who reciprocated with a visit to Sharjah in February 2025, highlighted a shared commitment to empowering women and youth through education, healthcare, and economic opportunity.

“The Big Heart Foundation is committed to going beyond immediate relief by creating sustainable pathways to prosperity,” said Alya Obaid Al Musaeibi, Director of TBHF. “Our Zanzibar initiatives reflect that philosophy by integrating education, sanitation, and livelihoods in a way that uplifts individuals and strengthens communities.”

Targeting Zanzibar’s thriving yet under-resourced seaweed and herbal farming sectors, this year-long initiative will empower 200 women and youth with technical training, resources, and access to markets. Through sustainable farming methods, quality assurance support, and contract farming models, the programme will enhance production, increase incomes, and integrate participants into the region’s growing blue economy.

The project not only strengthens local livelihoods but also aligns with Zanzibar’s national economic development strategy by nurturing small and medium enterprises and expanding access to domestic and international trade.

In collaboration with Save the Children, TBHF is enhancing school health infrastructure across four districts—Unguja, Kaskazini A & Kati, Micheweni, and Mkoani—by upgrading water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities in 28 primary schools.

This 18-month initiative will directly improve the learning environment for 21,173 students and indirectly impact over 42,346 community members. It includes the construction of 20 sanitation blocks with 128 toilets that are inclusive, gender-sensitive, and accessible. Hygiene kits and menstrual health education will also be provided, helping to reduce absenteeism and support girls’ continued education.

By addressing systemic challenges and building local capacity, The Big Heart Foundation continues to foster lasting change—transforming communities and empowering future generations across the African continent.

TBHF and Save the Children are transforming Ghana and Shwaka Primary Schools into model learning institutions. The 18-month programme will directly benefit 2,071 students and indirectly reach 16,848 students in neighbouring schools.

The upgrades include modern classrooms, libraries, science and ICT labs, and inclusive sports facilities. The initiative also integrates digital learning tools and skill-building resources to better prepare students for future challenges in a dynamic global landscape.

With more than 179 projects implemented across Africa—reaching over 1.4 million people in countries including Tanzania, Ethiopia, Nigeria, and Mozambique—TBHF is firmly positioned as a leading force in people-centric development. In Zanzibar, past initiatives such as the Big Heart Mobile Medical Clinic and school sanitation upgrades have laid a strong foundation for the new programmes.

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, TBHF’s latest initiatives contribute directly to quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, decent work and economic growth, and sustainable cities and communities