Beyond2020, a humanitarian effort led by the UAE, has announced the installation of crucial solar energy lighting solutions in the Kutupalong Rohingya refugee camp in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, bringing light to 4,500 people. The deployment in Bangladesh, which aims to improve security and circumstances for social and community events after dark, is the second phase of ‘20by2020,' which was recently relaunched as ‘Beyond2020,' to serve as a flagship platform for continued global outreach.
Beyond2020 goes "beyond generations," "beyond borders," and "beyond limits" to provide crucial, life-changing solutions to a greater range of beneficiaries around the world, using technology for good and supporting inclusive and sustainable development.
On behalf of Beyond2020, Electricians Without Borders, a leading France-based non-profit organisation and winner of the Zayed Sustainability Prize 2020 in the ‘Energy' category, was entrusted with installing the technology at the world's largest refugee camp. The previous Prize winner drew on its award-winning experience with the well-known ‘Light for the Rohingyas' project, which transformed the lives of thousands of people through renewable energy and business mentoring.
Beyond2020 distributes sustainable technology and solutions to needy communities, building on the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan by supporting the humanitarian principles of the UAE's founding father, with a total of nine countries reached to far. Each solution or technology has already transformed other communities around the world and has been recognised by the Zayed Sustainability Prize as a winner or finalist.
“Empowering vulnerable communities and driving global progress toward the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the driving principles of the Beyond2020 initiative,” stated H.E. Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Director General of the Zayed Sustainability Prize. Beyond2020 and its partners are glad to play a part in helping the community in need in Bangladesh and supporting the efforts of humanitarian non-profits to relieve any hardships suffered by the community.”
H.E Al Jaber added, “The UAE has long had a holistic humanitarian outlook that is reinforced by the wise leadership with the aim of supporting sustainable solutions and launching and driving initiatives that aim to serve humanity in various parts of the world. We are pleased with the introduction of these vital lighting solutions by Beyond2020, bringing greater ease to the daily lives of the community and enhancing security, while building a more supportive environment for expanded community activities. We will continue to expand the reach and accessibility of the Zayed Sustainability Prize’s winners’ and finalists’ innovative sustainable solutions to even wider communities in the region and globally.”
As the globe navigates the economic ramifications of the pandemic, the swift development, perseverance, and expansion of Beyond2020 remains critical, necessitating increased collaborative efforts by all stakeholders throughout the international sustainability community.
“The Beyond2020 programme is forging new ground in delivering access to sustainable energy solutions,” stated Mr. Johannes van der Klaauw, Representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Bangladesh. In Bangladesh, this generous donation will make a real positive difference in the lives of vulnerable Rohingya refugees. Light at night improves security and has important positive social impacts in the community, particularly for people living with disabilities and for women and young girls. The use of sustainable technology, such as the expanded use of renewable energy solutions, is a key priority for UNHCR in Bangladesh.”
Electricians Without Borders contributed their world expertise in renewable energy projects for off-grid communities by installing 240 Solar Home Systems and 640 solar lamps in the refugee camp, as well as teaching inhabitants in equipment maintenance for their individual residences. The Beyond2020 deployment in Bangladesh targets all refugees, with a focus on people with disabilities, pregnant women, and young girls.
To date, eight deployments have been made as part of the initiative's initial phase, covering energy, health, water, and food-related solutions in Nepal, Tanzania, Uganda, Jordan, Egypt, Cambodia, Madagascar, and Indonesia. Another 11 countries have been identified for phase two, in addition to Bangladesh.
Abu Dhabi Global Market, Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, Mubadala Petroleum, the Ministry of Tolerance and Coexistence, Masdar, and BNP Paribas are among the UAE-based and international partners involved in Beyond2020.