The GNRC Secretary General and Director of Arigatou International – Nairobi, Dr. Mustafa Y. Ali, together with the Director of Prayer and Action for Children, Ms. Rebeca Rios-Kohn, who both serve in the UN Multi-Faith Advisory Council (MFAC), on 4th and 5th April 2022 participated in an annual retreat of the Advisory Council.

The two-day hybrid meeting, with attendees participating in-person and virtually, aimed at evaluating the progress of the Advisory Council, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and reviewed the progress of members in helping to mitigate the outbreak and its effects. The meeting also discussed MFAC plans with specific focus on strengthening collaboration and promoting interfaith dialogue.

Specific attention was given to current conflicts around the world that have caused injury, death and displacement of millions of people. A special tribute was made to the families in Ukraine who have fled their homes due to the ongoing crisis in their country. Members additionally received an update from the UN SG Advisor on Prevention of Genocide Ms. Alice Nderitu on UN’s efforts to prevent genocide.

During the organizational briefings, Arigatou International shared its progress in strengthening its partnerships at the regional and global levels while responding to the effects of the pandemic on vulnerable and underprivileged communities. Arigatou International also shared its work through the GNRC members in some 61 countries around the world.

The annual retreat similarly discussed opportunities, emerging issues and new priorities for the Advisory Council. Working Group representatives also had an opportunity to reflect on past and current activities. Updates were provided on key events, such as the 75th Anniversary of the United Nations.

Arigatou International is a member of the UN Multi-Faith Advisory Council (MFAC) and will continue to engage with its partners to secure the rights and well-being of children worldwide.