AbbaNibi Team, AbbaNibi.com - Israel/Jewish Entertainment and Culture Newswire

After bringing the benefits of solar power to a total of over 250,000 people in Africa, Jewish Heart for Africa, a non-profit organization that brings sustainable Israeli technologies to African villages, announced that their organization has been granted Special Consultative Status to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

Special Consultative Status provides non-governmental organizations with access to ECOSOC and its many subsidiary bodies. This status provides select civil society organizations with the opportunity to participate in nearly all inter-governmental processes at the UN dealing with economic and social development.

Of 624 applications for Special Consultative Status in 2012, Jewish Heart for Africa was one of 241 applicants selected. The decision was adopted unanimously by all members of the Council.

Jewish Heart for Africa will have access to all meetings of ECOSOC as well as other UN bodies, agencies and special events organized by the President and Secretary General. Seven representatives of Jewish Heart for Africa will be granted annual passes for access to UN premises; short-term and group passes for the organization’s supporters will be available as well.

The application process—a year-long endeavor requiring in depth reporting on the organization’s mission and impact—was facilitated by Jewish Heart for Africa board member and former Ambassador of Zambia to the UN and European Union, Isaiah Z. Chabala. The process was funded by board member Steven Ackerman.

“This is a truly momentous milestone in our organization’s short span, and a significant moment of recognition for our life-saving, empowering and humanitarian mission of love, solidarity and peace between the people of Israel and Africa,” said Ambassador Isaiah Z. Chabala. “Jewish Heart for Africa is making an invaluable and lasting contribution to the people of Africa and to the realization of the Millennium Development Goals as well, in particular poverty eradication and the promotion of sustainable development.”

“I am proud to be a part of this shining light of Jewish ideals, Israeli innovation and giving for a better world,” explained board member Steven Ackerman. “As Jewish Heart for Africa continues o grow, access to ECOSOC and UN agency meetings will serve to further connect and support us in our efforts.”

.ORG-Connection: Jewish Heart for Africa’s mission is to save African lives with Israeli innovation, all while supporting Israel’s economy and image around the world.