Qena Governor Dr. Khaled Abdel Halim took part in a girls’ cycling marathon organized by the Qena branch of the National Council for Women, in partnership with Plan International Egypt and the “Your Right Is a Life” project implemented by the Ana Masry Association. The initiative comes as part of ongoing efforts to combat negative social practices affecting women and girls and to raise awareness of national programs aimed at addressing these challenges.
The governor emphasized that cycling is one of the healthiest physical activities and an environmentally friendly mode of transportation, noting that Qena Governorate is working to transform the city into a green, eco-friendly urban center. He highlighted ongoing plans to upgrade and prepare roads to support safe bicycle use.
Dr. Abdel Halim added that he has instructed the Directorate of Youth and Sports, along with all relevant authorities, to prepare for the launch of the “Qena Bike” project. The initiative is currently under study in cooperation with UN-Habitat and the United Nations, with the aim of encouraging citizens to use bicycles and establishing dedicated cycling lanes across the city.
The marathon started from the National Council for Women headquarters, passed by the Qena Governorate building, and concluded at Hathor Hotel, coinciding with activities marking the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign.
The event brought together MP Dr. Naglaa Bakhoum, Dr. Hoda El-Saady, Rapporteur of the National Council for Women, Wagdy El-Dorra, Director of Plan International, as well as several ministry representatives and participating girls.
Governor Abdel Halim expressed his appreciation for all organizing and supporting partners, noting that the marathon reflected a strong sense of community awareness and a collective rejection of all forms of violence against women.
He stressed that the Egyptian government places high priority on women’s empowerment and protection, calling for continued cooperation between state institutions and civil society to promote respect for women, support girls, and encourage their participation in sports and public life as essential partners in achieving sustainable development.
