Deputy Health Minister Abla Al‑Afifi Reviews Population Strategy in Ismailia

Deputy Minister of Health and Population Dr. Abla Al‑Afifi visited Ismailia Governorate, meeting Governor Lieutenant General Nabil El‑Sayed Hassanein and senior health and local officials. The delegation examined the implementation of Egypt’s National Population and Development Strategy (2023‑2030) and the urgent‑action plan for 2025‑2027, highlighting progress in reducing “red‑zone” areas and advancing family‑development programmes such as the “Golden Day” initiative.

Key health indicators for the governorate were reviewed, including a crude birth rate of 18.3 per 1,000, a cesarean‑section rate of 51 %, and family‑planning usage rates. Dr. Al‑Afifi stressed the need to curb unjustified cesarean deliveries, lower unplanned pregnancies, and cut neonatal mortality. She also held meetings with obstetrics, neonatology and mid‑wifery staff to reinforce guidelines for natural birth and improve maternal‑child care quality, while urging coordinated actions to empower women economically and expand youth employment programmes.