Egypt’s Minister of Environment, Dr. Yasmine Fouad, visited the Fourth Bird Photography Exhibition in Egypt, held at Cairo’s Opera House in the Adam Henein Hall of the Hanager Arts Center from February 7 to 12, 2025. The exhibition is organized by the Egyptian Wildlife Photographers Association, chaired by Judge Mohamed Hani, President of the Cairo Court of Appeal.
During her visit, Dr. Fouad toured the exhibition and expressed her admiration for the stunning images of birds and wildlife on display. She praised the creativity and skill of the photographers, noting that their works effectively highlight the beauty of Egypt’s diverse bird species and the importance of preserving their natural habitats. She also emphasized the role of such exhibitions in fostering environmental awareness and promoting eco-tourism.
Dr. Fouad pointed out that these photographic works are an excellent medium for spreading the message of environmental conservation, as they not only showcase the country’s rich biodiversity but also encourage the public to value and protect Egypt’s wildlife. The Minister stressed that the precision and quality of the photographs make them an influential tool in educating the public about the significance of protecting the environment and supporting sustainable tourism.
Highlighting the Ministry’s ongoing support for such initiatives, Dr. Fouad expressed the government’s commitment to fostering a culture of respect for nature through art. She also proposed a future collaboration between the Ministry and the Egyptian Wildlife Photographers Association by signing a cooperation protocol. This would include supporting the association’s annual expeditions, promoting the works of the photographers, and preparing for a major event in line with the upcoming World Migratory Bird Day.
Dr. Fouad also engaged with the exhibition’s participants, discussing Egypt’s unique position as a key stopover for migratory birds. She explained that Egypt’s 34 bird habitats are crucial for migratory species, with the country serving as a vital bridge connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa. Egypt is the second most important bird migration corridor in the world, witnessing the passage of hundreds of millions of birds each year. Many of these birds spend their winter in Egypt’s wetlands, which provide essential resources for their survival.
The Minister further emphasized the Ministry’s efforts to enhance eco-tourism in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. Dr. Fouad mentioned a recent field visit to Aswan and Lake Nasser, aimed at promoting sustainable eco-tourism in the region.
Dr. Fouad also discussed the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to raise environmental awareness, particularly regarding the protection of natural resources. She expressed satisfaction with the increasing public involvement in reporting illegal wildlife trade, noting that such reports are promptly addressed by authorities.
Judge Mohamed Hani, President of the Egyptian Wildlife Photographers Association, praised the Ministry of Environment’s efforts in advancing Egypt’s environmental protection initiatives. He commended the positive shift in public dialogue surrounding environmental issues and highlighted the Ministry’s focus on providing alternative livelihoods for local communities affected by over-hunting.
The association has been proactive in raising awareness about the protection of wildlife, organizing workshops and lectures by experts and photographers. These initiatives aim to enhance the skills of members while emphasizing that wildlife photography is not only a form of artistic expression but also a powerful tool for raising awareness about animal and bird conservation.
The photographers themselves expressed their gratitude for the Ministry’s efforts to address water pollution, which affects migratory birds during their seasonal travels. They also appreciated the Ministry’s biodiversity conservation projects, which provide safe environments for birds during their migration.
The Fourth Bird Photography Exhibition aims to spotlight the art of bird photography and raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation in Egypt. The exhibition includes discussions on the latest photographic techniques, challenges faced by wildlife photographers, and the methods used to document nature through photography. This year’s exhibition saw an increase in participation, with 108 photographers, ranging in age from 14 to 70, competing for top prizes.
The Egyptian Wildlife Photographers Association, which held its inaugural exhibition in January 2021, continues to support photographers and provide a platform for exchanging experiences. With the growing interest in wildlife observation and eco-tourism, the association organizes specialized festivals in various cities, including Port Said and Damietta, where photographers capture unique images that reveal the hidden beauty of nature.
