Amman: Aimed at promoting social solidarity, the "Preserving Blessings" initiative intensifies its efforts during the holy month of Ramadan, distributing 12,680 meals at its inception and increasing significantly each year.
According to Jordan News Agency, the initiative collects surplus food from hotels and various events, redistributing it to impoverished families while achieving positive environmental impacts by reducing food waste. During Ramadan, the initiative capitalizes on a strategic opportunity to enhance food security and curb waste, a global challenge highlighted by a 2025 World Food Programme study, which reports that approximately 1.3 billion tons of food are wasted annually.
This quantity, representing about one-third of the food produced globally, could feed 800 million people. To tackle this issue locally, the Ministry of Agriculture launched the "No to Food Waste" initiative, aiming to empower local movements in food waste management in Jordan, marking a significant step in food security and promoting rational food consumption.
Yahya Abu Dhiab, Executive Director of Basmat Al-Hayat Charity Association, stated that the "Preserving Blessings" project, initiated by the association in 2022, aligns with Jordan's Economic Modernization Vision and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The project initially distributed 12,680 meals during Ramadan, with the numbers increasing each year to 35,292 in 2023, 60,736 in 2024, and 84,184 in 2025.
The project prevents food waste by safely delivering meals to beneficiaries, saving 373,200 kilograms of food from waste. It has received approval from the Jordan Food and Drug Administration, the Ministry of Social Development, and the General Iftaa Department. Its operations include providing health and safety equipment to staff, collecting clean food in a hygienic manner, and transporting it in certified vehicles.
Dr. Kawthar Qatarna, head of the Jordanian Food Bank (JFB), highlighted the bank's efforts to provide meals to impoverished households, especially during Ramadan. Established in 2012, the bank focuses on preserving and managing surplus food, with support from His Majesty King Abdullah II, who provided a refrigerated vehicle and a van for volunteer transport. The bank has achieved significant successes through agreements with five-star hotels, ensuring the safe distribution of food.