Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Health and Population, held a meeting today with Engineer Sherif El-Sherbiny, Minister of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities, to discuss mutual cooperation aimed at enhancing investment in the healthcare sector. The discussions, held at the ministry’s headquarters in the New Administrative Capital, also addressed the conditions of leprosy colonies, strategies for improving care for patients, updating policies related to their rights, and constructing new hospitals.
Dr. Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, official spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, stated that Dr. Abdel Ghaffar welcomed Minister El-Sherbiny and his delegation, commending the Ministry of Housing’s support for the healthcare sector. He emphasized the importance of collaboration to increase investments and provide land for building new hospitals.
The health minister highlighted the significance of encouraging private sector investments in healthcare, facilitated by streamlined procedures in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing. The meeting also explored urban planning models, particularly in new cities, to promote improved healthcare services for citizens.
Discussions included plans to develop leprosy colonies in Egypt by constructing hospitals and providing housing units to integrate patients into society. Dr. Amr Kandil, Deputy Minister of Health, provided a detailed account of the colonies’ history, citing notable examples like Abu Zaabal in Qalyubia and Al-Ameria in Alexandria. He confirmed that leprosy colonies no longer accept new cases, with patients now treated in dermatology departments across public hospitals. He reiterated Egypt’s goal of eradicating leprosy by 2030.
Additionally, the meeting reviewed issues related to water and sanitation in collaboration with the National Authority for Potable Water and Sewage. Dr. Abdel Ghaffar stressed the need for a comprehensive map to address water and sewage problems, ensuring monthly monitoring and resolution.
Engineer Sherif El-Sherbiny expressed his enthusiasm for the meeting, emphasizing that healthcare investment and land allocation for projects in new cities are top priorities for the Ministry of Housing. He outlined the ministry’s flexible partnership models, including opportunities for collaboration with Egyptian and foreign investors to maximize investments.
The ministers agreed to coordinate with the Urban Development Fund to modernize the leprosy colonies in Khanka and Al-Ameria, including the construction of hospitals in these areas. Plans and proposals will be submitted to the fund for implementation in alignment with health and housing goals.
This strategic meeting underscores Egypt’s commitment to advancing healthcare infrastructure, addressing pressing public health issues, and fostering collaboration between government ministries and private investors.
