Initiative from Sheikha Fatima provides workers with cool drinks during the summer

The Irtewaa initiative was launched by Sheikha Fatima for the second year.

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Outdoor workers will be given cool drinks throughout the summer as part of an initiative organised by the General Women’s Union.

In its second year, the Irtewaa initiative was launched following directives from Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood.

Teams from the GWU organise the distribution of water and juice to workers during the peak hours of the day every day.

Noura Al Suwaidi, director-general of the General Women’s Union, said the campaign had already begun and will continue for three more months.

Last year the GWU worked with Al Ain Distribution Company to provide drinks to more than 2,000 workers. More than 3,000 bottles of water and 3,000 bottles of juice were distributed, she said.

The campaign targets workers “who maintain the civilized image of the city” including construction workers and street cleaners, according to Ms Al Suwaidi.

Apart from reducing the effects of the summer heat on workers, Sheikha Fatima hopes the initiative will help foster a sense of loyalty and belonging among workers in the country, Ms Al Suwaidi said.

She said the campaign is in line with this year’s theme for Emirati Women’s Day - provided by Sheikha Fatima - that Emirati women are constant partners in giving, which is also part of the Year of Giving initiative launched by President Sheikh Khalifa.

Sheikha Fatima’s initiatives aim to provide continuous support and unlimited giving to all workers in the country and to assist those in need around the world, she said.