Egypt launches '1000 Kilometer Journey' initiative on cervical cancer, women's reproductive health

CAIRO – 21 August 2023: Minister of Social Solidarity Nevine al-Qabbaj launched Monday the "1000 Kilometer Journey" initiative carried out in collaboration with the Egyptian Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology to raise awareness on cervical cancer and economically empower women in Upper Egypt.

Adopting the motto of "Be One Step Ahead," the initiative targets to open 50 clinics specialized in women health, reproductive health, early diagnosis of cervical cancer, and pregnancy follow-up. Also, two mobile clinics will be operated.

The initiative further aims for raising the awareness of women on medical follow-up and contraceptives, training medics and rural female leaders, and holding fairs for women to sell their products.

A campaign will take place in nine governorates starting with Alexandria on September 15. It will last there for two days, then will head to Beni Suef (October 6-7), Menya (October 20-21), Asyut (November 3-4), Sohag (November 17-18), Qena (December 1-2), Luxor (December 15-16), and Aswan (December 22-23), concluding on January 5-6 in Cairo.