Mercy Hands Europe – Who They Are and What They Do

Mercy Hands Europe (MHEU) is a women‑led, international non‑profit organisation based in Geneva. Working across Syria, Iraq, Ethiopia and other crisis‑affected regions, MHEU delivers humanitarian aid and development programmes in partnership with trusted local organisations.

Its mission is to uphold human dignity, promote sustainable development, and ensure that local communities lead the solutions to the challenges they face. The organisation works across multiple sectors—including health, education, livelihoods, protection, agriculture and WASH—with a strong commitment to culturally sensitive, community‑driven interventions.

What NEF Does with Mercy Hands Europe

NextEnergy Foundation began its partnership with Mercy Hands Europe in 2026, supporting a renewable‑energy project designed to strengthen essential services in rural communities in northern Syria. The initiative focuses on improving access to electricity for healthcare and enhancing agricultural productivity for olive farmers who face growing climate and economic pressures.

2026 Project – Bringing Solar Energy to Al‑Bab District, Syria

In 2026, NEF is supporting Mercy Hands Europe and its local partner IACO to bring clean, reliable solar energy to rural communities in Qabbasin, Al‑Bab and Bizaa (Aleppo Governorate). The project addresses persistent power shortages affecting both healthcare and agriculture—two sectors central to community wellbeing and economic recovery.

At the Safe Haven Syria healthcare centre, a rooftop solar system will provide uninterrupted power for essential physiotherapy and psychosocial services for women and children. This shift away from diesel generators will reduce costs, increase reliability and improve service continuity, particularly during emergencies.

In parallel, the project will deploy two mobile solar‑powered irrigation units in Al‑Bab and Bizaa. These systems will support olive farmers with efficient, low‑cost irrigation during the spring and summer seasons, reducing reliance on expensive diesel pumps. Farmers will also participate in training on system use, maintenance and advanced irrigation practices, strengthening long‑term agricultural resilience.

Overall, the project aims to create a more stable and sustainable local environment by ensuring reliable electricity for healthcare and improving water access for farming—directly benefiting thousands of residents and supporting economic recovery in conflict‑affected communities.

Expected Impacts

• Reliable, uninterrupted electricity for the Safe Haven Syria healthcare centre, supporting 3,000 people each year.
• Improved agricultural productivity for 700 farmers over five years, benefiting approximately 5,000 people.
• Solar-powered irrigation for over 40,000 olive trees across 160 hectares, increasing yields by at least 25%.
• Reduced dependence on diesel generators, lowering operational costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
• Strengthened community resilience through training, capacity building, and sustainable access to energy and water.