Egypt’s Minister of Environment, Dr. Yasmine Fouad, has been honored by the “Enty El Aham” (You Are More Important) initiative in recognition of her outstanding contributions to environmental advocacy and women’s empowerment. The celebration comes shortly after her historic appointment as Executive Secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)—a position marking Egypt’s growing influence in global environmental leadership.
The event was attended by Dr. Rehab El Fakharany, General Coordinator of the “Enty El Aham” initiative, and Dr. Hadeer Sultan, Chair of its Medical Committee. The initiative operates under the umbrella of the Egypt Foundation for Health and Sustainable Development.
Empowering Women Through Upcycling: Project “Qasaqis”
In a meeting held during the event, discussions focused on expanding the impact of “Qasaqis”, a social innovation project launched by the initiative to support economically disadvantaged women through upcycling textile waste. The Ministry of Environment expressed its full support for scaling the project nationally, building on the success of its first phase implemented in Cairo.
“Qasaqis” aims to empower women by training them to repurpose textile scraps from garment factories into marketable products, contributing to both income generation and environmental sustainability. The initiative also fosters community awareness about waste reduction and green entrepreneurship.
Dr. Fouad emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the second phase of the project and facilitating its rollout across more governorates. “This initiative is a compelling example of how grassroots solutions can drive circular economy practices while uplifting women in underserved communities,” she said.
From Fashion Waste to Social Impact
During the ceremony, Dr. Fouad also highlighted the ongoing success of the “From Waste to Good Taste” initiative, which was launched during COP27 in partnership with the Egyptian Clothing Bank. The initiative encourages behavioral change toward more conscious consumerism, specifically targeting the environmental impact of fast fashion and textile waste.
“This program is not just about recycling clothing,” she said. “It’s about rethinking our relationship with consumption, fostering sustainability, and aligning daily behaviors with global climate goals.”
Celebrating Leadership and International Recognition
Representatives of Enty El Aham praised Dr. Fouad’s appointment to the UNCCD as a milestone for Egypt and a point of pride for women across the country. “Her selection reflects global confidence in Egyptian expertise and acknowledges the Minister’s consistent leadership on environmental and sustainable development issues,” said Dr. El Fakharany.
Dr. Fouad’s track record includes pivotal roles in climate diplomacy, including her stewardship during Egypt’s hosting of the UN Climate Change Conference COP27, and her advocacy for integrating environmental justice into policy frameworks. Her journey is viewed by many as a source of inspiration for Egyptian women striving to take on leadership roles in both public and international spheres.
“She is a national role model and proof that Egyptian women can lead global conversations,” added Dr. Sultan. “Her achievements are not only a personal triumph but a national one.”
