Etihad Airways has recently celebrated the launch of its new route connecting Abu Dhabi and Nairobi, Kenya, with a significant community initiative. Aimed at supporting local development, Etihad’s community outreach program will provide educational opportunities to local women and children. In conjunction with the new Abu Dhabi- Nairobi connection, the program reflects Etihad’s commitment to both connectivity and social responsibility. While the new Abu Dhabi-Nairobi service strengthens the airline’s already expansive network, it will also be supporting the region it serves.
Community Initiative in Kenya
At the heart of this initiative will be the establishment of the Etihad Airways Community Development Centre. With a strong focus on education and women’s empowerment, the centre will house a boarding school as well as a vocational training centre for young women. The comprehensive boarding school will serve children from nursery to grade six. Meanwhile, the vocational training centre for young women will offer programmes, equipping participants with innovative skills to build sustainable livelihoods. The facility will provide practical training and classes aimed at enhancing employability and entrepreneurial skills. Collaborating with the Amahoro Coalition, the centre will aim to support marginalised and forcibly displaced communities in the country’s capital, Nairobi.
Leadership Commitment
Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People & Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways, emphasised the importance of this initiative, stating,
“This Community Development Centre embodies our commitment to creating lasting positive change in the communities we serve. By providing comprehensive educational facilities and vocational training, we’re giving flight to ambition and creating opportunities for the next generation to thrive.”
Isaac Kwaku Fokuo Jr., Founder and CEO of the Amahoro Coalition, echoed this sentiment. Fokuo Jr. noted that their partnership with Etihad represents a significant advancement in developing the community and creating sustainable futures.
“The Amahoro Coalition, in collaboration with Etihad Airways, is committed to a multi-stakeholder approach to addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges. By focusing on empowering women through education and digital literacy, we are not only fostering sustainable skills but also enabling individuals to take the lead in their communities. This initiative represents a significant advancement in our efforts to break cycles of inequality and drive future growth. We value our partnership with Etihad Airways, a proactive private sector player, as we work together to turn ambition into actionable impact.”
With the launch of its new Nairobi route and, more importantly, the community initiative accompanying it, Etihad Airways is not only enhancing connectivity but also making a meaningful impact on local communities.
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