Egyptian President allocates LE 100 million for fund serving people with disabilities

CAIRO – 27 July 2020: Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El Sisi ordered allocating LE 100 million (about $6.3 million) from the donation-based “Tahya Misr” Fund for a fund that takes care of people with special needs.

This came in a meeting with Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouli and Nevin Al-Qabbaj, the minister of social solidarity, on Monday.

The “Ataa” Fund for people with special needs was established by the 50-year old Nasser Social Bank in November last year, during the term of former Social Solidarity Minister Ghada Wally.

“Ataa” is the first charitable fund in Egypt that works in accordance with the Money Market Law. It accepts donations from all individuals and companies and invests in treasury bills, shares, and securitization.

The return on the investment goes for the support of organizations, bodies and assemblies that serve people with special needs on medical or social levels.

The money is also directed to providing support to universities, schools and other educational institutions licensed to carry out scientific research that serves people with disabilities in all fields.

In November, the fund reportedly started with a capital of LE 125 million ($7.8 million).

Ending the Year of People with Special Needs: A look at Egypt, disability

CAIRO - 9 December 2018: Eyes closed shut on a single bed in a small apartment, the 'invisible man' slept. The air smelt of abandonment and solitude. Life could not have visited this place in a long time; joy never stayed here. Individuals living with different forms of disabilities are often marginalized and ostracized.

President Sisi last December called on the government to consolidate and boost implementation of measures within the framework of empowering citizens with special needs.

He added during his speech at Al Manara International Conference Center in New Cairo that the state seeks to deepen the awareness and refine the capabilities of schools and teachers on methods of dealing with people with special needs.

The Egyptian leader further demanded the enhancement of their social participation and thus ensuring their rights and excellence in various fields.

He also issued directives to the youth and sports sector to provide qualified and specialized trainers across all youth and sports facilities in all governorates with full knowledge of the mechanisms of dealing with people with special needs.