Egypt’s National Council for Childhood and Motherhood (NCCM) will launch a “Safe Child Unit” in six governorates as an initial phase to provide integrated support for children facing physical and psychological violence. The initiative, discussed during a meeting of the Standing Committee for Health and Population on Sunday, aims to establish a comprehensive care system including psychological support, social services, and medical referrals. Sahar al-Sonbati, head of the NCCM, stated that the unit will specialize in comprehensive care for affected children and families.
Egypt’s National Council for Childhood and Motherhood (NCCM) has announced plans to launch a “Safe Child Unit” in six governorates as an initial phase, aiming to offer integrated support for children exposed to physical and psychological violence. The proposal was discussed at a meeting of the Standing Committee for Health and Population on Sunday, chaired by Ghada al-Dorry, who is finalizing the executive steps and procedures.
Sahar al-Sonbati, head of the NCCM, explained: “The Safe Child Unit will specialise in providing comprehensive and integrated care for children and their families, particularly those who have been subjected to any form of psychological or physical violence.” She noted that the council is preparing a “service map” to speed up referral processes and ensure timely access to appropriate support.
Mental health, family counseling, and early detection of psychological issues remain strategic priorities for the council. Wael Abdel-Razek, the NCCM’s Secretary-General, confirmed the project will start in six provinces as a pilot for nationwide expansion, alongside developing awareness messages to promote child protection and prevention culture.
The broader action plan addresses risks from child marriage and violations against girls, while continuing efforts to combat female genital mutilation (FGM) in all forms, especially its “medicalisation.” The meeting, attended by experts and specialists, reviewed implementation steps and strengthened intervention mechanisms for at-risk children. Al-Dorry described the unit as a qualitative addition to the national child protection system, designed to aid recovery and social reintegration for abuse victims.