‘Ramadan Aman’ drives UAE youth to safety
The campaign, created in partnership with Ajman-based Al Ihsan Charity Association and the Ministry of Interior, seeks to counter the issue of road accidents that occur during Iftar hour, writes Maryam Al Qassimi
As the clock slowly ticks until the sunset commences with a strike of cannon, drivers on the road, both young and old, rush home to break their fast. With the intensity of the heat and the vulnerability of dehydration and hunger, fasting drivers are more inclined to speed to catch up for Iftar appointments.
Ramada na man, a campaign created in partnership with Ajman-based nonproit organisation, Al Ihsan Charity Association and the Ministry of Interior, seeks to counter the issue of road accidents that occur during Iftar hour.
Through collaboration among trafic oficials in the seven emirates, volunteers of all age groups participate in distributing Iftar meals to drivers and passengers at trafic junctions across the UAE.
The organisation, which sees participation of around 25,000 volunteers, has extended across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Oman and Bosnia.
Organisers along with volunteers send out packages that include food, water, and a brochure on road safety. “It is not a charitable event as much as it is a service and duty to society,” says one of the organisers as he briefed the purpose and rules to volunteers. “This is for the safety of our youth,” he points at the child volunteer whose road safety vest reaches until his knees. “When you give out the boxes, make sure all passengers are wearing their seatbelts. If not, remind them,” he directs to the volunteers. Volunteers who participated in the distribution of boxes in Sharjah have voiced their opinions and views on the campaign.
Ghalia Al Hammadi mentions the ease of registering process. “I believe it is very organised in terms of having a website launched ready for volunteers to join from all around the country. The website allows volunteers to pick the emirate and trafic junction or packaging location that is most convenient for them. It is a simple task. But it leaves a positive impact on those receiving it. It shows that the community is here for you to look out for your safety and wellbeing.”
Amna Al Tunaij, who oversaw child volunteers along with organisers, mentions, “Allowing children to volunteer proves to us that there is no age limit when it comes to making a change. It shows that we are all one, no matter who we are.” She adds the sense of community that comes with volunteer work, “it reminds others that compassion and safety is paramount.”
Nada Taryam also mentions the compassion that comes with giving time and effort to such organisations. “To be able to have the privilege of drawing a smile on a stranger’s face inspires me to become a better version of myself and remind society that the world is a kind place.”
After giving out the packages, volunteers and organisers sit together to break their fast.