Egypt’s National Council for Women (NCW) inaugurated a new Safe Women Unit at Ahly Misr Hospital as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Norwegian Embassy.
The opening ceremony brought together NCW Chairperson Amal Ammar, Dr. Heba El-Sweedy, Chairperson of Ahly Misr Hospital, representatives from UNFPA, and the Norwegian Ambassador, among other dignitaries.
Providing a Safe Haven for Survivors
In her remarks, Chairperson Amal Ammar emphasized the symbolic and practical significance of the new unit, describing it as a sanctuary offering security and reassurance to women who have experienced violence. She praised Dr. Heba El-Sweedy for her visionary leadership in transforming Ahly Misr Hospital into a center that combines medical care with hope and dignity for survivors.
Ammar also highlighted the role of the NCW in empowering women across Egypt and its commitment to ensuring that every woman has access to safe spaces, legal support, psychological care, and social services. “This unit represents the 23rd facility of its kind in the country and demonstrates the importance of comprehensive support systems for women,” she said.
Comprehensive Support for Survivors of Violence
Dr. Heba El-Sweedy detailed the critical need for such units, noting that 20% of burn cases at the hospital are linked to violence against women, including acid attacks and deliberate fire-related injuries. The Safe Women Unit integrates medical care with psychosocial support, empowerment programs, skills development, and counseling aimed at restoring confidence and independence for survivors.
The unit also emphasizes advocacy and awareness, promoting stricter legislation against perpetrators and encouraging reporting of abuse to ensure accountability.
Global and National Partnerships
Representatives from UNFPA and the Norwegian Embassy praised Egypt’s leadership in protecting women and girls from violence. Yves Sasinrath of UNFPA highlighted the unit as a pioneering Egyptian model for delivering integrated services under one roof, while Ambassador Erik Hosum stressed the importance of safe environments where women and girls can thrive.
Chairperson Ammar reiterated that the initiative aligns with Egypt’s Vision 2030, which prioritizes women’s protection and empowerment. She emphasized the NCW’s ongoing role in supporting innovative initiatives that safeguard women’s rights and dignity.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Attendees toured the hospital’s facilities, including intensive care units, specialized burn treatment rooms, physical therapy units, radiology centers, and diagnostic laboratories. The hospital administration, led by Refaat Abdel Maqsoud, highlighted its mission to serve as a secure refuge for women and align medical services with international standards for care and recovery.
A Model for the Future
The Safe Women Unit at Ahly Misr Hospital is the first fully integrated center within the hospital to support survivors of gender-based violence, offering medical treatment, legal referrals, psychological counseling, and social support. The unit also provides specialized training for doctors and supporting staff to ensure comprehensive and compassionate care.
This initiative reflects the collective efforts of the NCW, UNFPA, the Norwegian Embassy, and Ahly Misr Hospital, setting a national benchmark for integrated services supporting women affected by violence.
