Cairo: Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly took part in a celebratory event marking the 10th anniversary of the "Takaful and Karama" program, which was launched under the theme "Social Protection: Lessons from the Past Shape the Steps of the Future." The event, attended by high-ranking officials including several ministers, the Lebanese Minister of Social Affairs, and representatives from international organizations, highlighted the program's role in Egypt's social protection efforts.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Dr. Madbouly emphasized the program's significance in fulfilling the Egyptian state's commitment to social protection and supporting vulnerable groups. He noted that since its inception, the "Takaful and Karama" program has embodied Egypt's vision of providing social protection to its citizens, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Dr. Madbouly highlighted the strategic timing of the program's launch, coinciding with Egypt's economic reforms. He stated that the program was vital in safeguarding citizens from poverty, emphasizing the need for social reform alongside economic progress. The program's focus on human capital investment, including educational and health commitments for families, has been a fundamental aspect of its operation.
He further mentioned President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi's insistence on making social protection a backbone of the state's structure, with "Takaful and Karama" being central to this phase. Over the past decade, the program has evolved into one of the most prominent cash support initiatives globally, particularly in the Middle East, through the use of scientific approaches and comprehensive social studies.
The Prime Minister noted the program's financial growth, with funding increasing from less than 2 million beneficiaries to a projected 41 billion Egyptian pounds for the fiscal year 2024/2025. This figure is expected to rise to nearly 55 billion Egyptian pounds in the following fiscal year. The program's expansion reflects Egypt's commitment to supporting its most vulnerable citizens.
Dr. Madbouly also mentioned the recent approval and ratification of a new social security law, which guarantees "Takaful and Karama" support as a legal right for eligible individuals. This legal framework aims to ensure the sustainability of the protection system for future generations.
Additionally, the government is preparing to launch an economic empowerment strategy targeting families under the "Takaful and Karama" umbrella, with an initial funding of up to 10 billion Egyptian pounds. This initiative seeks to improve living conditions and increase incomes for the most needy families.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Madbouly expressed gratitude to all contributors to the program's success, including the Ministry of Social Solidarity, field teams, strategic partners, and international organizations. He acknowledged their efforts as foundational to the program's ongoing success and the broader mission of ensuring social protection for all deserving citizens.