Egypt’s Minister of Social Solidarity, Dr. Maya Morsy, held a high-level meeting this week with Sima Bahous, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN Women, during Bahous’ official visit to Egypt. The meeting marked a key moment in reinforcing bilateral collaboration on shared priorities including women’s empowerment, social development, and climate resilience.
A Strong and Evolving Partnership
In a statement released by Egypt’s Ministry of Social Solidarity, the two leaders discussed expanding cooperation in various sectors such as care economy development, green economy integration, and the economic empowerment of women.
Minister Morsy praised the ongoing strategic partnership between the Ministry and UN Women, highlighting joint efforts in implementing impactful programs and initiatives aimed at advancing women’s rights and opportunities. She commended the United Nations entity for its commitment to eliminating violence and discrimination, and for enhancing women’s leadership roles during crises and disasters, as well as in sustainable socio-economic development.
“I am proud that a distinguished Arab woman is leading this global organization and driving meaningful progress on gender issues,” Dr. Morsy noted, referring to Bahous’ role as the first Arab woman to head UN Women.
Egypt as a Regional Model for Women’s Empowerment
Sima Bahous, in turn, praised Egypt’s progressive policies and political will in promoting women’s rights, describing Egypt as a regional model for gender inclusion. She reaffirmed UN Women’s commitment to further strengthening cooperation with Egyptian institutions.
Strategic Projects: Childcare, Green Economy, and Local Empowerment
The meeting also highlighted national projects that align with UN Women’s priorities. Dr. Morsy reviewed the Ministry’s efforts in conducting a comprehensive national census of early childhood nurseries, a project initiated under the directive of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. The census aims to improve early childhood care services, provide safe educational environments, and enable more women to participate in the labor market.
The results of this census will be unveiled at an upcoming national conference, where a flagship initiative to support nurseries across Egypt will also be launched.
Further emphasizing Egypt’s commitment to sustainable development, Dr. Morsy presented the “Azraa” (Plant) initiative, a pioneering project launched in 2022 by the National Alliance for Civil Development Work. Implemented by the Coptic Evangelical Organization for Social Services, the initiative integrates environmental, social, and economic dimensions to promote a transition toward a green economy.
Showcasing Egypt’s Cultural and Economic Potential
Following the formal meeting, Minister Morsy escorted Bahous and her delegation on a tour of the “Diarna” Heritage Exhibition, hosted at the Ministry’s headquarters in Egypt’s New Administrative Capital. The exhibition showcased a curated selection of handcrafted Egyptian products, including leather goods, handmade carpets, silver jewelry, traditional home décor, and linen caftans.
The UN Women Executive Director expressed admiration for the high craftsmanship and creative designs, praising the entrepreneurial success stories of Egyptian women artisans.
Building Toward Inclusive Growth
Also present at the meeting were key ministry officials: Engineer Margret Sarofim, Deputy Minister of Social Solidarity; Dina El-Sirfy, Assistant Minister for International Cooperation; and Amira Taj El-Din, Director of International Cooperation and Agreements.
This engagement reflects Egypt’s growing international partnerships to advance inclusive development, gender equity, and sustainable economic reform — areas that remain central to its Vision 2030 strategy.
