Below is the full text of the Foundation’s press release
“The Zakat foundation of America has completed four projects in the West African nation of Gambia designed to help and empower the poor segments of the population.
The Zakat Foundation of America ( ZFA), a Muslim American humanitarian organization has embarked on building several projects in Gambia in accordance with its global mission dedicated to providing humanitarian aid and social development through zakat and other charitable contributions.
In Gambia, ZFA has partnered with local groups to build and support projects that will provide sustainable development and social empowerment to many segments of the Gambian society.
The president of ZFA Mr. Halil Demir is currently in Gambia to oversee the opening of the projects and usher a new sustainable path of helping those in need in the Gambian society.
“We are truly honored to be able to provide humanitarian and empowerment projects that will help many people in Gambia.” Said Halil Demir president of the Zakat Foundation who is currently in Gambia.
“It is our hope that our projects in Gambia will make a difference in people’s lives and help improve their future.” Added Mr.Demir
The first project: “Education Reform: The Gambia Academy & New Curriculum Initiative (NCI)
The program is designed to support Gambia Academy, a pioneering institution that integrates African history, math, science and literacy with leadership and pride in Gambia’s culture and heritage.
The second project: the expansion of Gambia Academy of Kartong Campus and African Heritage Curriculum. Kartong is a village near southern edge of Gambia.
ZFA has enabled the acquiring of 50 hectares of land for the state of Art campus with modern facilities that include Music and Arts Department, Dram and Film studios, vocational training centers.
The third project: The health program of Gambia medical mission which has brought medicines and medical equipment, textbooks and laptops
Healthcare Impact: ZFA sponsored the Sunu Reew Medical Mission (Feb 2025), donating over $4,000 in supplies, equipment, and educational tools. Screenings for diabetes and hypertension benefited 78 villagers. Follow-up treatments and medical education support were provided. ZFA is facilitating the procurement and delivery of medical equipment and supplies to Gambia to strengthen ongoing healthcare initiatives.
The fourth project: Livelihood & Food Security: ZFA arranged for 100 goats that were distributed to vulnerable families, especially women-headed households, supporting 175 families and 875 individuals. · Training in animal care and entrepreneurship ensures sustainability. · Over 5,700 food packages and 3,700 meat packages distributed. · 58,350 people benefited from water wells.
About Zakat Foundation:
The Zakat Foundation is a global Muslim charitable organization dedicated to helping the poor and vulnerable people around the world regardless of their race, ethnic background and religion. ZFA has provided critical food and aid assistance to poor communities around the world including the United States, the Caribbean nations, the Middle East, Asia and Africa. It has also helped victims of natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes as well as victims of wars and armed conflicts around the world and most recently in Gaza.”
