Muscat: A distinguished delegation from Oman, comprising senior representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Education, the Children First Association, the Oman Charitable Organization, Dar Al-Atta, and representatives from the private sector, embarked on a visit to UNICEF’s Global Supply and Logistics Hub in Copenhagen. The purpose of this visit was to enhance humanitarian cooperation and strengthen the partnership between Oman and UNICEF.
The delegation's visit provided a detailed insight into UNICEF’s remarkable procurement and delivery operations in some of the most challenging environments globally. This strategic alignment was in harmony with Oman’s recent contributions to UNICEF’s appeal for Gaza.
During the visit, the delegation had the privilege of witnessing the pivotal role UNICEF’s Supply Division plays in the distribution of life-saving supplies to children across the globe. They were briefed on UNICEF’s extensive operations, which in the year 2023 alone facilitated the procurement of $5.2 billion in essential goods and services, benefiting children in 162 countries. Furthermore, UNICEF’s Supply Division has successfully delivered over $270 million worth of life-saving supplies to children and families in Gaza and Sudan as of early 2024.
HH Dr. Sayyida Muna Al-Said, Chairperson of the Children First Association, expressed her reflections on the visit, stating, "Our visit to Copenhagen has been truly enlightening. We were able to witness UNICEF’s advanced facilities and innovative approaches, particularly those designed to meet the needs of children with disabilities. This aligns closely with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, which places a high priority on the health, education, and overall well-being of our children, integral to the progress of our nation."
Over the course of three days, the delegation received an in-depth tour of UNICEF’s state-of-the-art facilities, including an exclusive look at the fully automated High Bay storage area, a structure that can accommodate up to 36,000 pallets of essential supplies. This facility operates with eight robots, ensuring efficient handling and rapid response capabilities, which are crucial during emergencies.
In addition to the tour, the delegation had the opportunity to visit UNICEF’s Innovation Hub, which showcases the latest research and techniques, including assistive technologies designed to support children with disabilities.
As part of the visit, the delegation explored opportunities for social development with the Danish National Committee, visiting the Copenhagen Children’s Library and the HRH Queen Mary Foundation. These visits provided valuable insights into programs that could further strengthen partnerships in these areas.
"Children are at the heart of UNICEF’s supply work," stated Director of UNICEF Supply Division, Leila Pakkala. "We extend our sincere gratitude for the strong cooperation and partnership between the Government of Oman and UNICEF for children in the most urgent need."
This visit signifies a continuation of the strong partnerships between Oman and UNICEF, as both entities work towards the common goals of advancing children’s rights, ensuring access to education, and improving health and nutrition outcomes.
