Dubai: The Intergovernmental Institution for the Use of Micro-algae Spirulina Against Malnutrition (IIMSAM), an autonomous observer to the United Nations Economic and Social Council, has appointed UAE-based Pakistani entrepreneur Umar Farooq Zahoor as a Goodwill Ambassador. Zahoor’s role will focus on promoting Spirulina, a highly nutritious micro-algae dietary supplement, to support the United Nations Millennium Development Goals in addressing global malnutrition.
According to a letter from Remigio Maradona, Permanent Secretary General of IIMSAM, Zahoor has been designated as Pro Bono Ambassador at Large within the Secretary General’s office. His appointment is intended to enhance IIMSAM’s efforts against malnutrition, particularly by overseeing the global distribution of Spirulina in underserved regions, with a special emphasis on Pakistan. This initiative is aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals for 2020-2030.
IIMSAM operates as an independent observer to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) under Resolution 2003, playing a crucial role in combating global malnutrition through Spirulina promotion. Zahoor joins a distinguished group of recent IIMSAM Goodwill Ambassadors, including HRH Sheikha Roda Bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Juma Bin Juma Al Maktoum.
Zahoor’s contributions have also been recognized with Pakistan’s Hilal-e-Imtiaz for securing over $400 million in direct foreign investment to the country over the past 18 months. Additionally, the Republic of Equatorial Guinea awarded him the Medal of Honour for bringing in $55 million USD in foreign investment. Earlier this year, Zahoor resigned from his role as Ambassador-at-Large for Liberia after five years, with Liberia expressing appreciation for his dedication to enhancing international relations.
