ADC, JRF Sign Agreement Empowering Local Communities in Aqaba

The Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC) and the Jordan River Foundation (JRF) have signed a cooperation agreement supporting the "Safe Spaces for Child and Family Protection" project implemented at the Queen Rania Al Abdullah Community Empowerment Center in Aqaba. This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at empowering local communities, combating violence against children, and fostering family well-being through positive parenting practices. The agreement was signed by ADC’s CEO His Excellency Mr. Hussein Safadi and JRF’s Director General Ms. Enaam Barrishi. 

"At ADC, we do not view Aqaba’s growth solely through the lens of tourism and investment. We believe that the human and social dimensions are cornerstones of sustainable development,” reiterated Safadi. “This agreement is not only about community empowerment—it is part of our national and moral responsibility toward socio-economic development," added Safadi. "It also stems from our belief in the importance of providing psychosocial support to families. We hope this project will create an environment where children can grow healthily, build independent and confident personalities, and contribute to a brighter future," Safadi concluded. 

Barrishi praised the strategic partnership with ADC, noting that “JRF is committed to empowering families and fostering community-wide awareness rooted in dialogue and positive parenting. Signing this agreement with ADC marks a pivotal step in expanding our programs’ reach. Activities implemented under this partnership are evidence-based and designed for direct engagement with children and their families. Through interventions that include ‘My Little House,’ ‘Safe Surroundings,’ and ‘Sulhoof’s Puppet Show,’ we are not only delivering engaging awareness content, but also shaping new behaviors and mindsets among children, youth, and families—strengthening their ability to protect themselves and leverage their resilience."

"Safe Spaces for Child and Family Protection” aims to reach 5000 children and adolescents across Aqaba, focusing on life skills development, violence prevention, family well-being, and psychosocial support