Amman: The Human Development Fund (HDF) opened its regional office in Jordan on Tuesday, expanding its humanitarian and development operations in the region.
According to Jordan News Agency, Minister of Social Development Wafa Bani Mustafa attended the opening ceremony, alongside lawmakers and representatives of international organizations, civil society groups, and volunteer organizations. During the launch, Bani Mustafa emphasized the ministry's efforts to enhance social protection and community development by implementing the National Social Protection Strategy, updating legislation and policies, and expanding partnerships with civil society, international organizations, and the private sector.
Bani Mustafa also highlighted the 2026 Social Protection and Care Fund Regulation, recently approved by the Cabinet, which establishes a "unified" financing mechanism for social protection and care programs administered by the ministry. The mechanism is intended to support a shift from short-term assistance toward sustainable economic and social empowerment for vulnerable groups.
She stated that the ministry is committed to supporting humanitarian and development initiatives that promote self-reliance, economic empowerment, and stronger community resilience. Local and international civil society organizations were described as "key partners" in delivering programs in social protection, education, healthcare, capacity building, and humanitarian response.
Bani Mustafa expressed hope that HDF's regional office would enhance inter-partner coordination, attract projects aligned with regional development priorities, and establish Jordan as a "base" for humanitarian initiatives.
HDF Chief Executive Officer Abdirahman Kariye noted that the fund operates in 33 countries, implementing programs in social development, education, and healthcare, and responding to urgent humanitarian needs. He stated that HDF's field programs are designed to support vulnerable families, including orphans and persons with disabilities, and aim to help households transition from dependency toward stability through long-term partnerships and empowerment initiatives.
HDF's Middle East and North Africa representative in Jordan, Mohammad Shboul, emphasized that the fund's approach places people at the center of development, translating that principle into programs, partnerships, and measurable outcomes.