“We are the first Muslim NGO to adopt such an integrated and well-thought-out strategy. It will definitely enable the IIROSA to make a big jump in terms of activities,” Basha told Arab News.
He spoke about big challenges facing the organization as millions of refugees, displaced people, orphans and the sick in the Muslim world await its care and assistance. “This is really a big task and we need the support of everybody to carry out our humanitarian mission,” he said.
Dr. Abdullah Al-Turki, secretary-general of the Muslim World League, presided over the general assembly meeting at Al-Salam Holiday Inn Hotel in Jeddah.
In his opening address, Al-Turki commended the Saudi leadership for its generous support to humanitarian activities. He emphasized the importance of the new strategic plan and said it would give IIROSA’s activities a new direction.
“Although IIROSA is based in the Kingdom, its activities benefit people all over the world,” Al-Turki said. “The organization will work vigorously to expand its humanitarian and charitable activities in the Kingdom and abroad,” he added.
Professor Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, secretary-general of the Organization of the Islamic Conference, also spoke. “Muslims consider charitable and humanitarian activities as part of their faith and culture,” he said and pledged OIC’s full support to IIROSA. He called for the removal of restrictions that hinder Muslim relief work.
Nearly 200 members attended the general assembly, which also approved the appointment of Ernst & Young as IIROSA’s official auditors. “The appointment of such a reputable international firm as auditors would strengthen IIROSA’s credibility and transparency,” Basha said.
He expressed delight at the high attendance at the meeting. “Forty-three new members have joined the assembly, which includes former ministers, business leaders, academics and other prominent personalities. I have observed a lot of enthusiasm among the members today as some of them devoted their precious time to take part in IIROSA’s activities.”
The new strategy, which was initiated by Basha, was prepared by the Center for Research and Consultancy at King Abdulaziz University, after consultations with academics, heads of NGOs and other experts inside and outside the Kingdom. The center conducted a number of workshops under the leadership of Dr. Essam Al-Felali to set out the strategic vision and draw up long-term goals.
IIROSA’s board of directors has expressed its appreciation of the strategic plan and hoped it would serve not only IIROSA but also other NGOs in the Islamic world. The strategy includes plans to establish alliances with governments, companies, financial houses and international organizations.
