Planning Minister Participates in Launch of Egypt's Early Childhood Development Strategy (2024-2029)

Today, H.E. Dr. Hala El Said, Minister of Planning and Economic Development, participated in the launch of Egypt's National Early Childhood Development Strategy (2024-2029) under the patronage of Prime Minister Dr. The event welcomed a number of ministers, ambassadors, representatives from government agencies, civil society, and regional and international organizations.

In her address, Dr. Hala El Said underscored the enduring partnership between the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development and the National Council for Childhood and Motherhood, lauding its four-decade commitment to providing care, environment, and supportive policies for children and mothers. She expressed gratitude to all local and international partners, especially UNICEF, for their invaluable contributions to the strategy.

El Said commended the inclusivity of Egypt's National Early Childhood Development Strategy (2024-2029), highlighting its comprehensive axes, objectives, and executive mechanisms aimed at ensuring the survival, growth, and maximal potential of all children in early childhood. She acknowledged the efforts of all involved in crafting the strategy, emphasizing their commitment to inclusivity, particularly regarding environment, supportive policies, and governance of childhood development systems.

The strategy encompasses cultural aspects, value systems, awareness, and appropriate behavior, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping the future of children, adolescents, families, and society. Additionally, it addresses crucial aspects of the supportive environment for children, such as service accessibility and sustainable financing, which are fundamental for childhood development.

Furthermore, the strategy emphasizes the importance of data, monitoring, and evaluation for evidence-based planning, ensuring accurate diagnosis and effective solutions.

El Said affirmed childhood development as a cornerstone of Egypt's human development efforts, reflecting the country's commitment to achieving comprehensive and sustainable development. Egypt places significant emphasis on the well-being of children and adolescents, recognizing them as the nation's true wealth.

She highlighted Egypt's legislative framework, including the 2014 Constitution and Child Law No. 12 of 1996, which safeguards the rights of Egyptian children across various services, in line with international conventions.

El Said emphasized the state's intensified investments in social service sectors, particularly health and education, to enhance citizens' quality of life. She highlighted initiatives such as the National Initiative for the Development of the Egyptian Countryside (Decent Life) and various health initiatives benefiting children.

In alignment with evidence-based planning, Egypt launched the "Gender-responsive Planning Guide," aimed at directing government entities towards implementing developmental programs in social care, prioritizing funding, and enhancing the quality of life for Egyptian families.

Additionally, El Said referenced the National Project for Egyptian Family Development, emphasizing its participatory approach and its five main axes, including economic empowerment, service intervention, cultural, media, and educational intervention, digital transformation, and legislative intervention.