Bahrain has launched a key social project benefiting divorced women, widows, abandoned wives and single orphaned women, a report said.

HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, wife of His Majesty the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women, gave the green light to start work on the project in the Northern Governorate, according to a report published in our sister newspaper, the Gulf Daily News.

Dubbed "Masaken", the project follows directives from Princess Sabeeka to expand the housing umbrella to benefit vulnerable categories of Bahraini women.

Eligible women will be entitled to rent flats earmarked for them at apartment buildings across Bahrain, without enjoying ownership rights.

Addressing the ceremony, SCW secretary-general Hala Al Ansari lauded Princess Sabeeka for her keenness on promoting family stability. She also paid tribute to the government for its efforts to promote housing services that benefit all social categories.

She hailed the legislative authority for integrating Bahraini women's needs in development policies.

She also hailed Housing Minister Basem Al Hamer and his predecessor Shaikh Ibrahim bin Khalifa Al Khalifa and Shura Council member Lulwa Al Awadhi for their contribution to the project.

Princess Sabeeka distributed flats to fifty women as part of efforts to promote the stability of Bahraini families.

Al Ansari said the initiative was in conformity with the Constitution, which stipulates equal opportunities for men and women.

She stressed the need to set up a database reflecting women's needs and aspirations so that the state can address their problems and ensure them decent living conditions.

Lifeline

The Housing Minister also underscored the importance of "Masaken" project, which ensures additional services for women in dire need for a lifeline.

He announced that the Cabinet would soon issue an edict endorsing the new service benefiting women.

"The project which dates back to 2009 reflects HM the King's keenness on promoting Bahraini women's status," he said.

He commended the government's efforts led by His Royal Highness Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa.

He also paid tribute to Princess Sabeeka for backing the project.

The scheme is expected to be completed within 15 to 18 months and will incorporate necessary facilities to cater to daily needs. – TradeArabia News Service