Islamic Relief marks Orphan Day with global activities supporting children and families

In commemoration of Orphan Day in the Islamic World, which falls on the 15th day of the holy month of Ramadan, Islamic Relief offices around the world organised a series of events celebrating and supporting orphaned children and their families.

Offices conducted activities, bringing communities together to highlight care and the importance of opportunities and education for orphaned children, while reaffirming our shared responsibility of ensuring vulnerable children grow up with access to food, shelter, health care and education.

Kenya

In Nairobi, Kenya, Islamic Relief organised a large community iftar for orphaned children, attended by more than 400 orphaned children. By bringing children together during the holy month, the iftar helped strengthen a sense of belonging and community support for vulnerable children and their families.

Islamic Relief hosted an iftar event for orphans in Kenya

 

More than 400 orphans attended the event in Nairobi

Syria

In Aleppo, Syria, Islamic Relief hosted a special iftar event for orphans and their guardians. The event programme featured children sharing their talents and highlighted achievements of their guardians.

Children waiting for the iftar to open with their guardians/parents

The programme began with a child performing a nasheed (hymn), followed by a short talk from another child talking about the importance of Ramadan. Another participant then delivered a speech about the sacrifices their mothers and guardians have made, while another presented a heartfelt poem.

During the event, Islamic Relief Syria also honoured a number of orphans and mothers for their achievements and resilience. Awards were presented to:

• Mothers who successfully launched and sustained their own livelihood projects, helping to support their families and build financial stability.
• Mothers and orphans who excelled academically and progressed in their education.
• Recognition was given to orphans who memorised the Holy Qur’an.

Several children were celebrated for their creativity and talents, which included drawing, calligraphy, handicrafts and wool-based handmade products. Some of the products were later auctioned and several products were sold, with all proceeds going directly to the child.

The Islamic Relief auction table on display to the local community

 

Local volunteers gave their time to celebrate with the children

Bangladesh

In Sunamganj, Bangladesh, Islamic Relief marked Orphan Day with an iftar gathering and a series of meetings with local officials and community leaders. Representatives met with school leaders, social services officers, women’s affairs officials and sub-district leaders to discuss ways to strengthen support systems for orphaned children.

Attendees in Sunamganj gathered to hear inspiring messages and updates in support of vulnerable children

 

The discussions focused on improving access to education and empowering orphaned children to build dignified and secure futures. Participants emphasised that ensuring social protection, care and security for orphans is a shared responsibility, requiring cooperation between government institutions, humanitarian organisations and wider society.

Through these activities, Islamic Relief reaffirmed its commitment to supporting orphaned children and their families – not only by addressing immediate needs, but by investing in education, livelihoods and opportunities that help children thrive.

Children and community members gathered to celebrate the Day of the Orphan in Sunamganj

Supporting orphaned children has been an integral part of Islamic Relief’s mission to alleviate poverty around the world for 40 years. Donate this Ramadan and help us transform the lives of vulnerable children around the world. Sponsor an orphan today.