Canada and UNICEF join National Partners to Champion Girls' Well-being at Event Marking International Day of the Girl Child

CAIRO, 29 October 2026 - The Embassy of Canada in Egypt in collaboration with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) hosted an event on 28 October to mark the International Day of the Girl Child, bringing together girls, senior government representatives and development partners to highlight the importance of nutrition, health and empowerment in shaping their futures. 

Held at the Canadian Ambassador’s Residence under the theme “Her Well-being … Her Future,” the event highlighted Nourishing Futures – Empowering Egyptian Women through a Holistic Approach to Maternal and Girls’ Nutrition, an initiative funded by the Government of Canada that, with UNICEF's support, contributes to Egypt's national efforts` to improve nutrition, promote healthy behaviours, and advance the health and well-being of girls and women in Egypt. 

The event brought together inspiring, young participants and senior officials, including Dr. Abla Al-Alfy, Deputy Minister of Health and Population for Population Affairs & Family Development, Chairperson of the National Population Council; Prof. Nesreen Ibrahim El-Baghdadi, Vice President of the National Council for Women; Ms. Mirai Nessim, Board Member of the National Council for Childhood and Motherhood; H.E. Mr. Ulric Shannon, Ambassador of Canada to Egypt; and Ms. Natalia Winder Rossi, UNICEF Representative in Egypt. Discussions explored how better nutrition, supportive environments and meaningful participation can strengthen adolescent girls’ health, well-being and future opportunities. 

Through community theatre and interactive activities, young voices took centre stage, sharing personal experiences, perspectives and aspirations while highlighting the importance of involving young girls in decisions that shape their lives. 

The event reinforced the importance of government leadership, sustained partnerships and community support in creating an enabling environment for girls to make informed, healthy choices and fulfil their potential.