Jun, 2025
Two Years of the Makani Project, supported by UNICEF
This program is supported by UNICEF.
In the heart of Lebanon’s Palestinian refugee camps, a transformative project is bringing knowledge, support, and connection to children and their caregivers. The Makani Project, funded by UNICEF and implemented in partnership with Anera in seven camps across the country, supports children and mothers through educational and awareness sessions focused on hygiene, nutrition, water and sanitation, and positive parenting practices.
The word Makani means "My Space" in Arabic, and that’s exactly what this initiative offers: a safe and inclusive environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive, and where mothers and caregivers can gain the skills and knowledge they need to nurture the next generation.
“This project is implemented with our local partners in seven Palestinian camps across Lebanon,” says Ahlam Hashem, Makani project coordinator. “We target children between the ages of 4 and 17 through age-appropriate sessions that focus on water, sanitation, hygiene, nutrition, and personal and public health. At the same time, we engage caregivers, mainly mothers, through informative sessions on topics such as breastfeeding, complementary feeding, and child development.”
"We target children between the ages of 4 and 17 through age-appropriate sessions"
One of the mothers benefiting from these sessions is Rasmiyeh, a 25-year-old mother of two from Rashidieh camp.
“Before attending the sessions, I used to rely solely on formula milk because of the false rumors I had heard,” Rasmiyeh says. “But after the sessions, I started transitioning back to breastfeeding. It benefited both me and my baby. I didn’t know it strengthens the bond between us and is actually better for his health. I also discovered that many practices I used to follow were harmful, but I only did them because that’s what I had heard from others.”
Sameera, 57, also from Rashidieh camp, is a mother of four and now a grandmother.
“I got married at 17, and back then, we didn’t have this kind of knowledge. We raised our children based on what our parents told us,” she says. “There were many harmful habits we used without realizing it; like giving babies ma’ ghareer (starch water), which we thought was good, but it’s actually bad for their stomachs.”
“I also learned that breastfeeding is more than just nutrition; it builds a strong connection between mother and child. These sessions are empowering me to raise my grandchildren with better practices.”
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"...we didn't have this kind of knowledge. We raised our children based on what our parents told us."
Through the Makani project, Anera and UNICEF are not only helping children flourish, but are also equipping caregivers with the tools and knowledge to build healthier, more resilient families.
Lebanon
South Governorate
The South Governorate of Lebanon is a beautiful place with white beaches, archeological ruins, bustling old souks, fertile fields of citrus and banana trees, and a deep history. Its residents are from different religions: Shia and Sunni Muslims, Druze, Eastern Orthodox, Maronite, Protestant, and Greek Catholic Christians. Its biggest cities are also the third and fourth largest in the country, Saida and Tyre.
