Cairo Governor Dr. Ibrahim Saber announced the launch of the Cairo Governorate’s “Hanhafaz Ala Torathna” initiative from Al-Muizz Street in the Wust Al-Qahira district. The initiative involves 200 young volunteers from the Faculties of Archaeology and Tourism & Hotels, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the capital’s heritage and cultural identity while promoting positive behavior within historic areas. This effort is part of the governorate’s ongoing work to safeguard Cairo’s civilized image.
The governor was accompanied by Cairo Deputy Governor Dr. Ahmed Anwar Attia Al-Adl, TV host Gamal El-Shaer, and several officials from the Cairo Governorate.
Governor Saber stated that the initiative stems from the governorate’s commitment to fostering a culture of heritage preservation and strengthening community partnerships in safeguarding historic areas. He added that Al-Muizz Street is one of the most significant heritage and historical sites, reflecting Egypt’s deep-rooted civilization and attracting large numbers of visitors and tourists from around the world.
Moreover, Saber stated that the governorate is developing a comprehensive plan to develop historic Cairo. The plan includes upgrading archaeological sites, improving visitor services, and increasing awareness about the importance of preserving heritage. He added that the success of these development efforts relies on community awareness to protect the progress made.
Saber further stated during his participation in the initiative that Historic Cairo is one of the most important heritage sites in the world, encompassing mosques, buildings, and archaeological locations that reflect the grandeur of Egyptian civilization throughout the ages. He added that preserving this heritage is a shared responsibility that requires the combined efforts of the state, civil society, the private sector, and citizens.
Saber further stated that the initiative depends on the participation of 200 young volunteers to conduct field awareness campaigns targeting shop owners in areas frequented by tourists in the Wust Al-Qahira district. The campaigns aim to educate them about the importance of maintaining cleanliness and a civilized appearance, as well as appropriate ways to interact with visitors. These efforts contribute to enhancing the capital’s public image in the eyes of its guests.
Saber added that the initiative is being implemented in cooperation with Ertqaa Solid Waste Management (ISWM) Company and the Historic Cairo Development Project. This collaboration reflects the combined efforts of state institutions, the private sector, and civil society to support heritage preservation and raise community awareness of its importance.
The governor said that enhancing the tourist experience starts with refined human interaction, a commitment to cleanliness, and maintaining the orderly appearance of streets and commercial shops. He emphasized that every citizen and shop owner serves as an ambassador for Egypt to its visitors and that a warm welcome, a smile, and respect leave a positive impression that strengthens Egypt's reputation as a premier global tourist destination.
Furthermore, Saber said that the initiative includes awareness campaigns and interactive activities, as well as cultural and artistic events designed to attract the public and encourage both citizens and business owners to participate in preserving heritage sites. He added that the governorate aims to expand the “Ambassadors of Civilization” program across various historic and heritage districts in Cairo, establishing it as a sustainable model that promotes civilized behavior and protects the capital’s historical identity.
The initiative's activities featured awareness meetings with shop owners and workers in archaeological areas, emphasizing the importance of proper conduct with tourists, visitors, and student delegations, as well as providing services in a courteous manner. Additionally, the events demonstrated the significance of these archaeological sites and the role of tourism in supporting the national economy and creating job opportunities. The activities also featured an artistic performance showcasing a selection of national and heritage songs.
Source: Media Department, Cairo Governorate
