“It is my pleasure to join you today to inaugurate the third phase of SFD operations 2004-2008, and to speak on behalf of non-governmental organizations. This inauguration is coinciding with the celebrations of September and October revolutions, and at a time while Yemen is enjoying its best eras after the reunion in 22 nd of May1990 that was accomplished by our honored leader.

Mr. President Ali Abdullah Saleh devoted all his time and effort for developing this country, and has given women all rights that enabled them to have a vital role in development, and reach to decision-making positions.

Mr. President,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

We have started working with the Social Fund since its establishment in 1997. During its first and second phases of operations, SFD has been one of our main sources of support, and in most cases, the major one.

The Social Fund has enabled us to pursue our developmental and social role, and to participate in building this country. The Social Fund has not only provided financial and technical support for the various educational, training, and rehabilitative programs, but also provided advice and guidance.

SFD has supported literacy programs through providing educational materials, and training literacy teachers. In the health field, it has built and equipped health centers, and held various training courses.

In areas of training and rehabilitation, many courses in various activities: handcrafts, administrative, and technical, were conducted. SFD even took a further step by providing job opportunities for many course graduates. The Social Fund is contributing to combating poverty, and funded small projects (micro-enterprise) that benefit greatly poor individuals. What makes the role of the Social Fund unique is that it intervenes after conducting field visits, and follows up with associations' activities, and provides support according to the level of activity and the number of beneficiaries.

Finally, on behalf of Al-Bushra Association, I would like to extend my gratitude and appreciation to all those working at the Social Fund, and all those funding and supporting it. We hope and request even more support and funding for the Social Fund so it can play a larger role in development, and we wish the third phase will be more fruitful”.