Misr Elkheir News

A Roundtable Discusses Turning Climate Change into a Societal Responsibility at the Cairo International Book Fair

As part of the 57th edition of the Cairo International Book Fair, the Specialized Seminars Hall hosted a roundtable on Tuesday titled: “Climate Change: From Environmental Challenges to a Shared Societal Responsibility,” with the participation of a number of experts, specialists, and representatives of civil society organizations.

The roundtable discussed the shift in addressing climate change from being viewed solely as an environmental crisis to becoming a collective responsibility that requires the integration of roles among the state, civil society, and the private sector, as well as activating governance tools, legislation, and green financing mechanisms.

Participants included Dr. Fadl Hashem, Executive Director of the Climate Change Center at the Ministry of Agriculture; Dr. Mohamed Mamdouh, Head of the NGO Development Sector at Misr El Kheir Foundation; and researcher Hamada Qaoud, Senior Researcher for Sustainable Development at the National Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development. The session was moderated by Youssef Arouj, President of the Mediterranean Youth Foundation, and was attended by several officials from Misr El Kheir Foundation, members of NGOs and development institutions, and specialists in climate and agricultural affairs.

For his part, Dr. Fadl Hashem explained that the Ministry of Agriculture is working to confront climate change through a package of programs and projects aimed at protecting agricultural resources, supporting farmers, and promoting climate-smart agriculture systems. He stressed the importance of integrating scientific research with practical implementation to address the accelerating challenges posed by climate change.

In the same context, Dr. Mohamed Mamdouh emphasized the need to launch flexible programs capable of harnessing young people’s energies and engaging them in training and awareness initiatives related to climate change issues. He affirmed that building societal awareness is one of the most important tools in confronting the crisis, alongside strengthening the role of NGOs as effective development partners in implementing climate policies on the ground.

With the participation of Misr El Kheir Foundation, a member of the National Alliance… A Seminar at the Cairo International Book Fair

Dr. Mohamed Refai, CEO of Misr El Kheir Foundation, a member of the National Alliance for Civil Development Work, affirmed that the foundation focuses its work on people as the fundamental pillar for achieving sustainable development through its slogan, “Human development is our primary mission.” He explained that the foundation is distinguished by two very important aspects:

First, diversity — as it operates in numerous fields and sectors such as culture, arts, health, education, scientific research, various aspects of life, and support for debtors, rather than limiting its role to food aid.

Second, intellect — which it considers the greatest added value. At Misr El Kheir, the focus is on “developing minds, not stomachs,” and that is why the foundation is present at the Cairo International Book Fair.

These remarks were made during the CEO’s speech on Saturday at a seminar titled: “Towards a Partnership for Cultural Renaissance: State Institutions, Civil Society Organizations, and the Private Sector,” held at Plaza Hall 1 in the main hall of the 57th edition of the Cairo International Book Fair. The seminar was attended by Dr. Essam Sharaf, former Prime Minister; Dr. Nevine El Kilany, former Minister of Culture; and Eng. Hussein Masry, Executive Director of Juhayna Food Industries.

In his speech, Dr. Mohamed Refai emphasized that cooperation between civil society, the private sector, and government institutions is a fundamental pillar for achieving national development in line with Egypt’s Vision 2030 strategy. He noted that 34,600 civil society organizations have regularized their status within the country, and that Misr El Kheir Foundation collaborates with 4,500 NGOs, focusing its work on people and the development of minds.

Cooperation Protocol with Bibliotheca Alexandrina

Bibliotheca Alexandrina and Misr El Kheir Foundation signed a cooperation protocol to enhance collaboration in scientific research, knowledge exchange, and youth empowerment.

Dr. Ahmed Zayed, Director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, described the partnership as a significant addition due to the Foundation’s extensive development experience. Dr. Mohamed Refai, CEO of the Foundation, noted that both institutions share a common focus on human development—intellectual growth at the Library and comprehensive human development at Misr El Kheir.

The cooperation will include joint programs, events, and initiatives to promote scientific research, innovation, education, heritage, environmental awareness, and youth and women’s empowerment.

Scholarships for Outstanding Students at Zewail City

Misr El Kheir Foundation signed a cooperation protocol with Zewail City of Science, Technology and Innovation to provide scholarships for outstanding students nationwide from the 2025/2026 academic year through 2028/2029.

The initiative supports high-achieving secondary school graduates, helping them pursue advanced education while easing financial burdens on their families. Officials emphasized the importance of investing in scientific research, innovation, and nurturing talented youth.

Water Network Rehabilitation Protocol in Beni Suef

Misr El Kheir Foundation signed a cooperation protocol with the Beni Suef Drinking Water Company to replace and renew 5,000 meters of deteriorated water networks in Al-Fant Al-Sharqiya village, Al-Fashn Center, benefiting more than 47,000 people. The project is funded by Crédit Agricole Egypt Foundation for Development.

Officials praised the Foundation’s ongoing efforts in health, education, relief, and essential services across the governorate.

Comprehensive Health Day in Beni Suef

Misr El Kheir Foundation organized a comprehensive health day in Beni Suef Governorate as part of its “Human Development is Our Core Mission” strategy.

Activities included:The inauguration of the first dialysis unit within the intensive care department at Beni Suef Chest Hospital , A multidisciplinary medical convoy in cooperation with the Export Development Bank of Egypt and Monthly treatment services for underprivileged families without a maximum treatment cost

The Foundation also announced drinking water projects benefiting over 51,000 homes through network expansion, rehabilitation of water stations, and drilling of artesian wells.

“Week of Goodness” in Menoufia

Tahya Misr Fund, in cooperation with Misr El Kheir Foundation, launched “Week of Goodness” activities at the University Stadium in Menoufia Governorate to support vulnerable families.

Over three days, more than 4,000 families benefited from integrated services, including:

40,000 clothing items distributed through the “Dokan El Farha” exhibition , 4,000 food boxes, 8 tons of meat and A comprehensive free medical convoy covering multiple specialties

The initiative aims to enhance Egypt’s social protection umbrella and ensure fair and efficient aid distribution.

Cairo Governor and Minister of Social Solidarity Launch “Iftar Sa’em” Campaign

Ibrahim Saber, Governor of Cairo, and Maya Morsy attended the launch ceremony of the “Iftar Sa’em” (Breaking the Fast) campaign organized by Misr El Kheir Foundation, a member of the National Alliance for Civil Development Work. Now in its 15th consecutive year, the campaign aims to reach the most vulnerable families across Egypt during the holy month of Ramadan.

The event was attended by prominent public figures, including Hala El-Said, several governors, Ali Gomaa, Chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, and Ambassador Nabila Makram.

Officials emphasized the political leadership’s commitment to strengthening social solidarity and expanding social protection to ensure aid reaches those most in need through cooperation between government bodies and civil society.