Muscat – In a first-of-its-kind initiative in Oman, mothers who have devoted their lives to caring for persons with intellectual disabilities were honoured during the ‘Ideal Mother of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities Award’ ceremony held on Friday under the patronage of H H Dr Mona Fahad Mahmoud Al Said.

The award, launched through the ‘Motherhood Initiative’, operates under the umbrella of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth as part of the Youth Initiatives Support Programme, which aims to empower non-profit volunteer initiatives and encourage community-driven projects.

The ceremony recognised a number of mothers from across the sultanate in appreciation of their exceptional dedication, patience and unwavering commitment in caring for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The event also highlighted inspiring human stories that reflect resilience, compassion and selfless service worthy of national recognition.

In addition to honouring mothers, the ceremony paid tribute to seven pioneering women who have contributed to volunteer work supporting persons with disabilities since the 1970s. The honourees included Raya bint Saif Al Riyami, Huda Abdullah Al Ghazali, Shakour bint Mohammed Al Ghamari, Dr Muna bint Mahfoodh Al Munthari, Barka Shahbal Al Bakri, Sabah bint Mohammed Al Bahlani and Dr Kaltham bint Mohammed bin Ali Al Zadjali, in recognition of their long-standing efforts and impactful roles in serving the community.

The felicitations were made possible through the generous support of Sheikha Amina Saud Bahwan Al Mukhaini, Chairperson of the Al Yusr Charitable Foundation, whose contributions have played a key role in advancing community initiatives and humanitarian work in the sultanate.

Speaking at the event, Ahood Khalfan Al Siyabi, Head of the Motherhood Initiative, said the idea behind the award was inspired by a personal experience.

“I have a sister with intellectual disabilities, and my mother dedicated her life to caring for her. She was honoured at the Arab level in Kuwait as an ideal mother, which inspired us to bring this initiative to Oman to honour mothers across the sultanate in recognition of their perseverance,” she said.

Omar Mohammed Abdullah Al Farsi, General Manager of Al Yusr Charitable Foundation, said the foundation’s support for the initiative reflects its commitment to empowering mothers who devote their lives to supporting individuals with disabilities.

He added that as the award was organised for the first time in Oman, organisers ensured representation from all governorates so that the message of appreciation reaches across the country while also acknowledging those engaged in volunteer work supporting this important segment of society.