Minister of Social Solidarity and Chairperson of the Anti-Addiction and Abuse Fund, Dr. Maya Morsy, recently attended the announcement of the results of the “Drug Protection Program in Developed Areas – Alternative to Slums.” This event is part of the implementation of the directives of His Excellency the President of the Republic to carry out drug protection programs in newly developed residential areas.
The event was attended by several key figures, including Dr. Ibrahim Saber, Governor of Cairo, Dr. Amr Osman, Director of the Anti-Addiction Fund, Ms. Hind Abdel-Halim, Deputy Governor of Giza (representing Eng. Adel El-Najjar, Governor of Giza), General Mohamed Zohir, Director of the General Administration of Narcotics Control at the Ministry of the Interior, as well as representatives from various ministries, concerned authorities, civil society organizations, representatives from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
In her remarks, Dr. Maya has confirmed that the country’s drug protection program in newly developed areas—replacing informal settlements—is grounded in a strategic, multifaceted approach. This program not only addresses drug addiction as a health issue, but also as a barrier to national development, social stability, and economic productivity. By focusing on prevention, treatment, and social reintegration, the program aims to create a safe, sustainable environment for communities in need.
Dr. Morsy underscored the importance of the program during an event to announce the results of the drug protection initiatives in these upgraded areas, a project which was set into motion under the directives of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. “I stand before you today, among our volunteers and recovering individuals, to reflect on a significant international moment,” Dr. Morsy stated, referring to Egypt’s recent presentation of its comprehensive human rights report to the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva. “I see in you a real-world example of Egypt’s efforts to uphold human rights and dignity, starting with the right to secure housing, high-quality healthcare, and community participation—core tenets of citizenship in our new republic.”
Social Protection at the Core of National Development
The Minister highlighted the government’s priority to implement comprehensive social protection and care programs for residents in newly developed areas. Special committees, working in harmony, are tasked with executing a series of development interventions effectively. A key part of this effort is the Research and Data Committee, which monitors behavioral issues and adaptation challenges within these communities, helping design precise intervention programs based on up-to-date field data.
Additionally, the Human Development Committee focuses on improving the standard of living for these communities, providing social protection services, including food and cash assistance. The Economic Empowerment Committee aims to break the cycle of dependency by financing small businesses and providing vocational training programs. Meanwhile, the Awareness and Education Committee works to instill positive community values through awareness initiatives and home visits, while the Community Engagement and Volunteer Committee encourages youth involvement in local volunteer efforts, fostering innovative solutions to local challenges.
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