In a recent briefing before the Human Rights Committee of Egypt’s House of Representatives, Dr. Maya Morsy, Minister of Social Solidarity, provided a comprehensive update on the significant strides made in the “Takaful and Karama” cash support program. With an eye toward improving the well-being of Egypt’s most vulnerable populations, Dr. Morsy emphasized the program’s notable expansion and its future direction, including an allocation of EGP 41 billion for the fiscal year 2024-2025.
The program, which initially reached 1.79 million families in the 2014-2015 fiscal year, has witnessed a remarkable increase in coverage, now extending support to 4.7 million families in 2024-2025. This expansion reflects the Egyptian government’s commitment to alleviating poverty and providing critical financial aid to those most in need.
Dr. Morsy also highlighted the substantial rise in the financial allocations for the program, with EGP 41 billion earmarked for cash transfers in the 2024-2025 fiscal year. This increase underscores the government’s dedication to enhancing the scope and effectiveness of social protection measures across the country.
During the session, Dr. Morsy outlined the key components of the program’s methodology, noting the collaborative approach between various government agencies to ensure that assistance reaches the most deserving families. By creating specialized committees to oversee service delivery, the program focuses on both the quality and efficiency of its operations. A critical component of the program’s success is its effort to raise awareness and engage beneficiaries in the verification process, ensuring that resources are directed effectively.
Dr. Morsy also discussed the program’s broader objectives, including its shift from providing financial aid to fostering economic self-sufficiency. This shift involves initiatives aimed at empowering beneficiaries through economic programs such as asset transfer, job training, and employment opportunities. The goal is to equip families to transition from dependency on cash support to independent, sustainable livelihoods.
The Minister also emphasized the integration of other social protection services available to “Takaful and Karama” beneficiaries. These services include free healthcare access, exemptions from school fees, food subsidies, and bread distribution. This holistic approach ensures that the program supports not only the financial stability of vulnerable families but also their health, education, and overall well-being.
Among the key groups benefiting from the program are those living below the poverty line, including widows, divorced women, orphans, the elderly, people with disabilities, and those suffering from the impacts of individual or collective disasters. Special attention is also given to women over 50 who are unmarried or unemployed, as well as informal workers facing economic hardship.
Dr. Morsy highlighted the alignment of the “Takaful and Karama” program with national initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized groups. These efforts include the national “100 Million Health” campaign and the “New Beginning for Human Development” initiative, which work to improve public health and offer economic empowerment through both banking and non-banking services.
The Ministry of Social Solidarity’s approach to comprehensive social protection not only addresses immediate financial needs but also aims to provide long-term solutions for Egypt’s most vulnerable populations. The substantial increase in funding and the focus on transitioning beneficiaries from dependency to self-sufficiency mark a significant step forward in the government’s strategy to reduce poverty and promote inclusive growth.
With a continued emphasis on integrating services and providing opportunities for empowerment, Egypt’s social welfare framework is evolving into a more robust system of support that seeks to uplift communities and drive the country’s sustainable development goals.
