CAIRO – 22 November 2024: In collaboration with UNICEF, the National Council for Childhood and Motherhood (NCCM) hosted Thursday the event “We Are the Future” to mark World Children's Day under the auspices of Mrs. Intisar El-Sisi.
The day commemorates the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989, a landmark treaty that Egypt was among the first to ratify, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding and promoting children’s rights.
Held at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC), the event featured active participation from children and youth alongside a distinguished lineup of attendees, including Dr. Maya Morsy, Minister of Social Solidarity, representing the First Lady; Dr. Osama Al-Azhari, Minister of Endowments; Engineer Adel Al-Naggar, Governor of Giza; Dr. Iman Karim, General Supervisor of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities; and Counselor Hisham Jafar, Head of the Child Protection Office at the Public Prosecutor's Office. UNICEF Regional Goodwill Ambassador Ahmed Helmy, actress Safaa Aboul-Saud, senior officials, representatives of diplomatic missions, and civil society leaders were also present.
In her opening address, Dr. Sahar El-Sonbaty, Chairperson of the NCCM, highlighted Egypt’s unwavering commitment to children. “Today’s celebration reinforces our shared dedication to safeguarding our children’s rights and empowering them to create a brighter tomorrow. Children are our most valuable treasure—the hope and future of every nation.”
She emphasized Egypt’s proactive measures in child protection, from ratifying international conventions to enacting progressive legislation, including the Egyptian Child Law and the 2023 reorganization of the NCCM as the primary authority on childhood and motherhood. Dr. El-Sonbaty also noted the council’s ongoing efforts to create a nurturing environment for children, addressing education, healthcare, and positive upbringing.
Dr. El-Sonbaty praised the leadership of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, whose unwavering support has catalyzed a nationwide focus on child protection. She also expressed gratitude to Mrs. Intisar El-Sisi for her patronage of the event and acknowledged the contributions of government entities, international organizations, and civil society.
She highlighted successful initiatives like “Dawwie”, which offers children a safe space to voice their opinions, share stories, and make informed decisions about their lives. Dr. El-Sonbaty also announced a forthcoming initiative titled “Planting, Harvesting, Happy Child… A Lifetime Start”, designed to enhance children’s well-being in collaboration with various ministries.
UNICEF representative Natalie Meyer applauded Egypt’s notable achievements for children, including reductions in maternal and infant mortality rates, closing the gender gap in education, and improving access to healthcare and sanitation.
“Today’s celebration highlights our commitment to advancing children’s rights and well-being. We extend our thanks to Mrs. Intisar El-Sisi for her patronage and to all our partners for their invaluable collaboration in supporting Egypt’s children.”
The event also celebrated the winners of the “Egypt Through Children’s Eyes” competition, organized by the NCCM in partnership with the Ministry of Culture. This initiative encouraged children to envision their country’s future and express their aspirations through creative design. The competition aligns with the presidential initiative “A New Beginning to Build Humanity,” which aims to foster societal and cultural development, particularly among children.
The “We Are the Future” celebration aimed to inspire hope and build intergenerational understanding. Children shared messages with decision-makers, offering their perspectives on their rights and aspirations for a brighter future. The event featured interactive activities that brought joy and creativity to children, emphasizing the importance of protecting their rights and enabling their potential.
Concluding the celebration, Dr. El-Sonbaty extended her gratitude to all stakeholders and called for renewed collaboration. “Let us unite—government, civil society, and individuals—to create a supportive environment where our children can thrive, dream, and achieve. Together, we can transform their aspirations into reality.
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