The Saeed Hub Social Innovation Incubator, launched by UNFPA, supports women social entrepreneurs in developing sustainable solutions with both economic and social impact, focusing on the elimination of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and other harmful practices. Riham Zakareya, 21, from Luxor, started Sycotiva, a mental health platform providing online group and individual therapy sessions, mental health awareness, and safe spaces for girls vulnerable to gender-based violence. The Social Incubator operates in Upper Egypt in cooperation with the National Council for Women, with support from the Royal Norwegian Embassy.

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The Basics of Journalism initiative empowers women in Iraq interested in journalism, addressing a gap in coverage of challenges such as violence against women. The project has trained 186 women, with 30% now working in national and local media. Focusing on journalism skills, ethical reporting, and digital fluency, the initiative equips participants to become professional journalists. This partnership between UNFPA and Rudaw Media Network is supported by the SEED Foundation and the Government of the United Kingdom.

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UNFPA's partner, Shamsaha, offers free, confidential support to survivors of domestic and sexual violence through a digital app and in-person services, alongside educational outreach and training. With UNFPA's support, Shamsaha has significantly enhanced its services by fully digitising their referral pathways on a convenient, user-friendly app. This innovative approach has allowed Shamsaha to expand its reach across the Middle East and improve accessibility for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Thus far, the app has over 119,000 beneficiaries across the region.

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The war in Gaza has a profound impact on women and girls, with over 155,000 pregnant and lactating women facing limited access to essential maternal health services. UNFPA Palestine launched a communication campaign highlighting personal stories, such as Malak’s, to draw attention to this crisis. UNFPA’s “hospitainers”—mobile, fully equipped medical units—provide prenatal, delivery, and postnatal care to women who otherwise would lack access. To date, six units are operational in Gaza, providing emergency obstetric care to thousands of mothers and newborns.
 

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Technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TF-GBV) is a serious concern affecting young women and youth all over the world. In response, UNFPA Tunisia launched Netopoly, an online board game co-created with youth aged 14 to 22, to raise awareness about TF-GBV and online harassment. This interactive game, inspired by Monopoly, promotes responsible and gender-equal online behavior while teaching online safety in an engaging format.

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