The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) appointed car rally driver Yazeed Al-Rajhi as its goodwill ambassador to the Kingdom and Gulf at a function held at the UNDP headquarters here yesterday, according to Arab News. The event took place under the support of Prince Sultan bin Fahd bin Abdulaziz, President of Youth Welfare. The 28-year-old Saudi car racer signed a one-year contract to promote UNICEF's programs designed to help the children in this part of the Gulf. “This is the first time that a goodwill ambassador has been appointed by UNICEF in the Gulf. Yazeed Al-Rajhi, who is privileged to get this honor, will be entrusted to work for the welfare of the children in the Kingdom and Gulf,” UNICEF Gulf Representative Dr. Ayman Abu Laban said. He added that with Al-Rajhi's enthusiastic efforts the organization hopes to raise awareness and set new goals to serve children and youths in the Kingdom. Enumerating the current projects in the Kingdom, Laban said the organization is in the process of implementing projects, such as increasing awareness of dangers of child abuse, with the Ministry of Social Affairs. Other programs will be developed in conjunction with the ministries of health and education, as well as with the Saudi Red Crescent Society. “I hope to play a vital role to bring issues related to children and youth to the highest levels of achievement and provide them with necessary protection,” Al-Rajhi said. “I hope to spread awareness on children's rights in the Kingdom, increase support for youth projects and highlight UNICEF's important role in providing support and protection for children in the region.” UNICEF is currently working on implementing a joint cooperation program with the Kingdom that aims at providing full rights to children and youth.
