Cairo: The Ministry of Social Solidarity has launched a unified hotline, 17673, to serve non-governmental organizations and respond to citizens' inquiries. The hotline will operate from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on official working days and is intended to provide a direct communication channel for NGOs and foundations.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the move follows directives from Social Solidarity Minister Maya Morsi and is part of the ministry's efforts to strengthen communication with civil society partners, improve transparency, and expand digital services to ensure faster responses to citizens' needs.

The ministry stated that the hotline will provide information and services, including handling complaints related to NGO activities, clarifying procedures for foreign funding requests and fundraising permits, and offering technical support for registering civil society organizations. It will also assist users with the electronic civil work system.

The ministry added that the hotline is staffed by trained personnel under the supervision of specialists to ensure prompt and effective service. It encouraged NGOs and foundations to use the service, calling it a tool to support development, enhance field work, and increase civil society participation.

The ministry highlighted that the Central Unit for Civil Work is implementing a broader development strategy that includes upgrading the capacity of association department employees in the governorates, modernizing digital infrastructure, strengthening monitoring and follow-up mechanisms, and improving the electronic system for overseeing donations and non-cash payment methods.