Yazeed Al-Rajhi, first Saudi appointed as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in KSA

"It is with great pleasure that we welcome Yazeed Al-Rajhi to UNICEF especially that is the first one from KSA and the Gulf to hold this position. We are certain that with his great support, ambition and valuable efforts UNICEF will raise awareness and make many achievements to support children and youth in the kingdom", said Dr. Ayman Abu Laban UNICEF Representative in the Gulf.

A noted businessman in KSA, Al-RAjhi is the descendant of a Saudi family known for their great support to social and humanitarian causes. He is also famous for his passion for, and achievements in, car races sport.

Yazeed Al-Rajhi commented: "It is a great honor to be given a chance to work with UNICEF. I shall perform my duties inspired by the noble values and guided by the instructions of the Custodian of the two Holy Mosques - May Allah protects him. I hope to play a vital role to bring issues related to children and youth to highest levels of achievement and provide them with necessary protection".

28-year-old Al-Rajhi has signed a one-year contract with UNICEF. He aspires to help spread awareness on Child Rights in KSA, increase support for especially youth projects and highlight UNICEF's important role in providing support and protection for children in KSA in particular and in the region in general.

UNICEF is currently working on implementing a joint cooperation programme with KSA which aims at providing full rights to children and youth including the most vulnerable and marginalized groups. The strategic results to be achieved by the end of 2009 include: First, Youth's and children's enjoyment of improved laws and policies based on the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), with their participation in formulation of such laws and policies. Second: Children's and youth's access to high quality care as well as to education opportunities that enable them to realize their full potential and, at the same time, to enjoy a healthy life. And third: Protection from violence, exploitation and abuse. This programme was prepared within the framework of the Eighth Five-Year Development Plan 2005 -2010 with focus on education and human resources development. The programme will advance all aspects of UNICEF Med-Term Strategic Plan for 2006-2009, A World Fit for Children and the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in KSA.

At present, UNICEF is implementing different projects with KSA. These include: "Increasing awareness of dangers of child abuse" with the Ministry of Social Affairs. UNICEF is also working with the Ministry of Health on projects like: "Child protection in hospitals", "Importance of breastfeeding and healthy nutrition" and "Child-Friendly hospitals". Other projects include "Reduction of injuries among children and youth" with the Saudi Red Crescent Society, and "Evaluation of Kindergartens in KSA" with the Ministry of Education.