ALGIERS, Algeria

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group and humanitarian aid foundation Islamic Relief's US branch Islamic Relief USA (IRUSA) have partnered to support the Global Islamic Fund for Refugees (GIFR).

As part of the IsDB's annual meeting in the Algerian capital Algiers, the two institutions signed an agreement Wednesday to provide sustainable aid and empowerment to refugees and displaced populations worldwide.

It was signed by Adil Alsharif, the director general of the IsDB's Islamic Solidarity Fund for Development (ISFD), and Ahmed Shehata, CEO of IRUSA.

The deal is expected to expand the growing momentum of the GIFR, which is a unique fund designed based on Islamic rules to provide sustainable financial support to refugees and displaced people, especially in IsDB member countries.

Its pilot intervention, under the name of the Regional Emergency Response Initiative for Sudanese Refugees, demonstrates its commitment to addressing pressing crises with targeted, impactful programs.

IRUSA’s contribution is expected to further bolster funding for programs that enhance access to education, water, sanitation, shelter and other critical services for those affected by forced displacement.