UNICEF appoints famed Iraqi composer, poet and singer Kadim Al-Sahir as Regional Ambassador for the Middle East and North Africa
AMMAN, Jordan, 20 November 2015 – On the occasion of Universal Children’s Day, the renowned Iraqi singer, Kadim Al-Sahir, has been appointed today Regional Ambassador for UNICEF in the Middle East and North Africa.
“We are delighted that Kadim Al-Sahir is joining UNICEF. His appointment comes at a critical time. He will lend his voice to speak on behalf of millions of children including those impacted by conflicts and wars,”
In his new role, Mr. Al-Sahir will support UNICEF’s work with children in the region, with a special focus on children living in conflict situations.
“We are delighted that Kadim Al-Sahir is joining UNICEF. His appointment comes at a critical time. He will lend his voice to speak on behalf of millions of children including those impacted by conflicts and wars,” said Peter Salama, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa.
“What is happening to children living in conflict-affected countries in this region is horrific,” said Mr. Al-Sahir after signing his letter of appointment. “I look forward to working with UNICEF to shed light on the plight of children, and how we can provide them with good health and the chance of education even during these difficult times”.
UNICEF estimates that as a result of ongoing conflicts in Iraq, Syria and Yemen nearly 21 million children are in need of humanitarian assistance. Across conflict countries, more than 13 million can no longer go to school due to violence, displacement and wars.
“What is happening to children living in conflict-affected countries in this region is horrific,”
Al-Sahir is one of the most established singers and musicians in the region, having sold more than 30 million albums since the start of his career in the late 1980s.
He held the title of UNICEF Iraq national ambassador from 2011-2012.
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For videos and photos: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/9sbhuxqwnq159rf/AAAhzhWd079Onw70vMNj6yNJa?lst
For further information, please contact:
Juliette Touma, UNICEF Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa, jtouma@unicef.org, +962-79-867-4628
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About UNICEF
UNICEF promotes the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere.
For more information about UNICEF and its work for children, visit www.unicef.org.
