Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health and Population, met with Mrs. Nathalie Maier, UNICEF Representative in Egypt, and her accompanying delegation to explore enhancing cooperation in health care, nutrition, and mental health. The meeting also aimed to discuss future plans to support Egypt’s healthcare system and reinforce the country’s role in assisting the people of Gaza.
Dr. Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Population, shared that the meeting began with Dr. Abdel Ghaffar congratulating Mrs. Maier on her new role as the UNICEF Representative in Egypt, wishing her success in her mission.
The discussions covered a range of significant topics, starting with the importance of promoting proper nutrition, especially for children in their early developmental stages. The goal is to ensure a balanced and comprehensive diet that promotes the health of Egyptian citizens. Additionally, the two sides discussed the need to introduce artificial intelligence (AI) training to children, following specific guidelines to stay aligned with global technological advancements and prepare future generations to thrive in the digital age.
The two parties also reviewed collaboration efforts related to the “Golden Thousand Days” initiative. This program aims to improve the health of mothers and their unborn children, ensuring the healthy development of newborns while focusing on building their physical and personal capabilities. A key aspect of the discussion also included Egypt’s vision to reduce cesarean section rates and address the health challenges faced by mothers and infants.
The meeting further emphasized the importance of strengthening mental health services through primary care units. The initiative aims to nurture a generation with emotional stability, ultimately enhancing their ability to compete and innovate in today’s fast-paced world.
In addition to healthcare topics, the meeting also highlighted Egypt’s ongoing efforts to provide humanitarian aid and healthcare support to the people of Gaza in the face of the current health and humanitarian crisis.
The meeting was attended by Dr. Mohamed Hassany, Assistant Minister of Health for Initiatives Affairs; Dr. Hatem Amer, Ministry Advisor for International Relations; and Dr. Suzanne Zanaty, Director of the Ministry’s Department for External Health Relations.
This collaboration between the Egyptian Ministry of Health and UNICEF signals an important step forward in both nations’ commitment to improving healthcare systems, promoting nutritional health, enhancing mental health support, and providing assistance to those in need across the region.
