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This came during His Highness's visit, on Wednesday, to the “Kanaf” centre in the Barashi area of Sharjah, which is the first of its kind in the region to provide legal, psychological, and social support to child victims of physical abuse.
The centre brings together all relevant child protection entities under one roof, creating an integrated environment that simplifies procedures and strengthens the sense of safety and trust among children and their families.
During his visit and meeting with members of the centre’s Higher Committee, His Highness said: “The child is a great humanitarian project that requires care and the concerted efforts of all institutions and entities to ensure a social environment that respects their childhood and nurtures a sense of belonging and reassurance. In Sharjah, under the wise guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and with the follow-up of his wife Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, we believe that child protection is not just an administrative procedure but a civilisational and humanitarian responsibility.”
The Chairman of the Judicial Council added: “We view “Kanaf” as an integrated social and developmental model that translates Sharjah’s vision of creating an environment that addresses children’s psychological and social needs, while offering them a comprehensive support system. We are committed to ensuring its sustainability and developing its services in line with the highest and best internationally accredited standards.”
His Highness toured the centre's departments, becoming acquainted with the “Child Journey,” a series of procedures a child undergoes from the moment the child arrives at the centre. This includes stages of evaluation, specialised criminal investigation, psychological support, and treatment—all within a setting that respects privacy and places the child's comfort and safety as the top priority.
The Chairman of the Judicial Council also listened to a detailed explanation about response mechanisms, various ideas for service development, and enhancing the readiness of specialised teams. He was briefed on the vital role played by partner entities working under the umbrella of “Kanaf,” through coordination and integration between the Public Prosecution, police, social services, and health and educational bodies.
His Highness reviewed a visual presentation highlighting key figures and statistics for the centre from its inception in 2019 to the current year. He learned that the centre has benefited 20,583 guardians and 35,317 children, and involved 6,639 specialists in handling cases, launching initiatives, and hosting workshops—totaling 532 initiatives and sessions.
The Chairman of the Judicial Council was also introduced to the centre’s field efforts, such as the participation of 98% of children enrolled in Sharjah’s 22 public nurseries, with the involvement of 714 guardians and 856 children across cities in the Emirate. He also learned about the studies, research, and campaigns held across various fields to fulfill the centre's goals and enhance child safety.
“Kanaf” was established under the support and directives of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs in Sharjah. The centre officially opened in 2024 and is overseen by the Child Safety Department under the Council.
“Kanaf” is the first of its kind in the region, following a methodology of integration and collaboration among all concerned entities to provide child support and care services in one place. The centre also draws from global best practices, adapting them to suit the local cultural and social context.
Accompanying the Chairman of the Judicial Council during the visit were: Major General Abdullah Mubarak bin Amer, Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police; Ahmed Ibrahim Al Meel, Chairman of the Sharjah Social Services Department; Judge Dr. Mohammed Obaid Al Kaabi, Head of the Judicial Department; Dr. Muhadditha Al Hashemi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Private Education Authority; Counselor Anwar Amin Al Harmoudi, Attorney General and Head of the Public Prosecution Authority; Hassan Yaqoub Al Mansouri, Secretary-General of the Sharjah Media Council; and Hanadi Al Yafei, Director-General of the Child Safety Department and Chairperson of the Higher Committee of the “Kanaf” centre.
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