SHARJAH: The Big Heart Foundation, TBHF, a Sharjah-based global humanitarian organisation dedicated to helping people in need worldwide, has announced the commencement of a project to establish the first readymade garment, RMG, factory for kids wear, in Upper Egypt.

The project, to be implemented by Egypt Network for Integrated Development, ENID, under the United Nations Development Programme, is estimated to cost US$605,000 and will be spread across over 500 square metres.

Located in close proximity to women’s homes in the Upper Egyptian District of Qena Governorate, the project aims to create 142 direct jobs for women and youth as well as 284 indirect jobs in the RMG sector. The total number of beneficiaries on the community-level is estimated to be over 2,130, thereby enabling social and workforce integration of women and unemployed youth in the country. The project will also add to the market revenue by enabling the export of 100 percent Egyptian-made products to other countries.

Commenting on the project, Mariam Al Hammadi, Director of the TBHF, said, "In line with the vision of Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, wife of H.H. the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of TBHF, the organisation is committed to helping those in need and creating a better world for everyone, which is not possible if women are not given equal opportunities to grow. With this project, we affirm our strong belief in the progress of women as for a sustainable and successful society."

She added, "We talk of women empowerment but you cannot uplift women unless they have access to health services, quality education and enough job opportunities. Apart from providing an earning platform for women, we hope that, with this project, we will be able to support women by the opening scope of further growth and development for them. This project will have long-term benefits and will uphold the TBHF's vision of supporting women and members of society to contribute to a bright future."

With an aim to promote women’s participation in the labour market through integrated interventions for promoting entrepreneurship, enhancing sustainable development and upgrading basic social services in rural Upper Egypt, the project focuses on socio-economic outcomes and improved quality of life for women.

The project is expected to have more than just economic advantages. It also includes training programmes and awareness sessions, which will help increase awareness on health and hygiene issues among women, eventually leading to higher use of contraceptive methods and resultantly a decrease in mortality rates among children.

WAM