Islamic Relief’s Programme Manager in Albania, Mohamed El-Wei, has been awarded the title of Ambassador of Peace at a ceremony in Tirana.

The event was organised by the Universal Peace Federation who nominated various individuals it believed had contributed to promoting a culture of peace. Mr El-Wei won the award in recognition of Islamic Relief Albania’s humanitarian interventions, its contribution to development and the promotion of peace and religious harmony in Albania.

The Universal Peace Federation was established in 2003 and works around the world to promote peace initiatives. Every year it nominates individuals from various fields including politics, the arts, the sciences and the humanitarian field who have dedicated their lives to working for interreligious cooperation, international harmony and a more united world.

“This award reflects the positive work that Islamic Relief is undertaking in Albania and worldwide,” said Mohamed El-Wei. “It is an honour to be bestowed with this award as it reflects the hard work and dedication of the staff of Islamic Relief Albania. This is the fourth reward that Islamic Relief Albania has received during our 17 years of working here.”

Islamic Relief Albania has been responding to immediate humanitarian needs and promoting sustainable development amongst some of the country’s most vulnerable communities. Programmes include vocational training, infrastructure development in rural areas, income generation, healthcare, education and support for vulnerable children.

We have also been working in partnership with the World Food Programme for the last five years providing food for some of the poorest families in northern Albania and running food-for-work programmes that are helping to develop the country’s infrastructure.