Egypt’s Ahl Masr Hospital opens safe women’s clinic to combat gender-based violence.

EGYPT—Ahl Masr Burn Hospital has launched the Safe Women Clinic in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and support from the Royal Norwegian Embassy.

The inauguration took place during the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, an annual global campaign calling for an end to violence against women and girls.

Distinguished guests attended the ceremony, including H.E. Erik Husem, Ambassador of Norway to Egypt; Yves Sassenrath, UNFPA Representative in Egypt; and H.E. Counsellor Amal Ammar, President of the National Council for Women.

Dr. Heba ElSewedy, founder and chairwoman of Ahl Masr Foundation and Burn Hospital, joined alongside hospital leadership and medical staff.

The clinic addresses a critical need revealed by hospital data showing that 20% of burn cases directly result from violence against women.

Medical teams shared harrowing examples during the launch, including Aya, 19, who suffered severe chemical burns after a relative attacked her with acid during a family dispute.

Similarly, Sara, 29, endured burns from head to knee when her husband set her on fire during a domestic altercation.

Following a Memorandum of Understanding signed with UNFPA in September, the hospital trained all medical and administrative staff in current medical, legal, and psychosocial protocols.

This preparation ensures survivors receive immediate, confidential, and compassionate care from their first contact with the facility.

The Safe Women Clinic joins a nationwide network of 71 Safe Women Units established across Egypt through cooperation between UNFPA and the National Council for Women.

These units include 23 facilities within major university hospitals and additional centers integrated into Ministry of Health and Population services.

Ambassador Husem emphasized Norway’s commitment to the initiative, stating that combating gender-based violence remains a key priority in Norway’s foreign and development policy.

Yves Sassenrath highlighted how the clinic demonstrates the power of strategic partnerships between government, civil society, donors, and the United Nations working toward a shared vision.

The clinic provides comprehensive services, including medical and psychological care, structured in-hospital referrals, and multisectoral connections for legal and social support.

Through the Ahl Masr Reintegration and Empowerment Center, survivors access psychological rehabilitation, skills-building programs, and pathways designed to help them regain confidence and reintegrate into society.

Dr. ElSewedy affirmed the hospital’s dedication to safeguarding women’s dignity and health through alignment with the 2030 Women’s Empowerment Strategy launched by the National Council for Women.