“We just came from an orphanage outside Kharga.”

Darwish wrinkled her nose slightly.  “I don’t believe we have any homes in Kharga.”

“It was a Rainbow of Hope house.”

The woman’s expression changed to a disappointing frown.  “I’m sorry, the Rainbow houses are not owned or operated by UNICEF.  They are managed by another organization.”

“Yes, we know,” said Mona.  “By Mido Saad.”

“One of his charitable organizations, yes.”

“It’s not the organization per se that we’re interested in.  It’s more about the children there.”

“I’m sorry, we don’t have any oversight of Beih Saad’s affairs.”

Mona glanced at Omar, who was quietly listening.

There it was again, the term Beih.

“We understand that you don’t oversee those particular houses.  But we were hoping you had some insight on the children, or how they are–”

“I’m sorry,” repeated Darwish.  “Multiple organizations are trying to help the children in these countries.  Some we work with and some we don’t.  Beih Saad’s Rainbow Foundation is completely independent of ours.  I’m happy to speak of our own efforts or those of our partnering charities.”

Mona paused, deciding to change tack.  “I’m sorry. We are very aware of UNICEF’s role in helping so many children, especially here in Africa.  I guess what we’re trying to understand is some of the differences in doing so.”

“I’m afraid I don’t understand.”

“Well, the difference between UNICEF’s practices versus other charities and orphanages.  I mean, UNICEF is the largest and most well-known charity for this mission with more funding and political support than anyone.”

Darwish’s face didn’t change.  She continued with her eyes fixed on Mona, nodding.  “Yes.  We are charged with the greatest global campaign efforts and responsibilities, but I’m not sure exactly what you’re asking.”

“What we’re asking,” explained Mona, “is why are most of the housing projects supplied by UNICEF and even your partners made up of tents, when housing provided by private organizations such as Mr. Saad’s, appear much more… able?”

From the end of the table, Shani Darwish’s face grew defensive.  “We have far more children to care for,” she said with a stiff grin.

“Yes.  I understand that.  But the conditions are so vastly different.  Even the children themselves.  We stopped by one of your assistance locations on the way here where you are housing thousands of children and their families.  But Mr. Saad’s houses hold far less with what appears to be far more afforded per child.”

“Again,” said the other woman, “I’m not sure what you are asking.”

Finally, Omar spoke up.  “We are not insinuating anything, Ms. Darwish.  We are not suggesting UNICEF is doing anything less than it could.  We are simply trying to understand why Mr. Saad’s organization can do so much more.  Or conversely, why are they not helping more children?”