The National Governance and Sustainable Development Institute (NIGSD)—the training arm of the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development—along with Misr El-Kheir Foundation, celebrated the distribution of the first edition of Institutional Commitment Certificates to NGOs that have met the certification requirements. This certificate is the first standard certificate for NGOs aimed at integrating and activating principles of good governance within these organizations.

The ceremony witnessed the awarding of certificates to 12 NGOs out of more than 98 applicants. Attendees included Dr. Sherifa Sherif, Executive Director of the National Governance and Sustainable Development Institute; Dr. Mohamed Rifai, CEO of Misr El-Kheir Foundation; Eng. Ahmed Ali, Executive Director of Programs at the foundation; and Dr. Mohamed Mamdouh, Head of the NGO Development Program.

During the event, Dr. Sherif highlighted that the collaboration between the institute and Misr El-Kheir began under a 2020 cooperation protocol, aimed at enhancing the role of NGOs in achieving sustainable development. This cooperation aligns with the institute’s vision, mission, and objectives, and its national role in embedding sustainable development goals and governance systems within Egyptian society, including NGOs.

Dr. Sherif provided an overview of the institute’s history since its establishment in 1956, up until the Prime Minister’s decision to rename it the “National Governance and Sustainable Development Institute.” She emphasized the institute’s vision to support, enhance, and develop good governance systems to achieve competitiveness and sustainable development. The institute’s mission includes enhancing Egypt’s status in governance and sustainable development through consultancy, research, and training programs aimed at promoting the culture, values, and practices of sustainability and governance mechanisms.

Sherif noted the institute’s focus on governance in various sectors, including health and sports, and highlighted the diverse training programs it offers. Over the past four years, the institute has trained 50,000 participants through programs like “Be an Ambassador,” “Governance Ambassadors,” and the “Women’s Leadership Program,” which has trained 8,000 women across all governorates since its launch in 2018.

She further explained that the institute holds a competitive advantage as a specialized institute for spreading awareness on governance and sustainable development, with its slogan being “Governance for Sustainable Development.” The institute’s international engagement is one of its core pillars, collaborating with 10 distinguished international training institutions to ensure global connectivity.

Dr. Mohamed Rifai, CEO of Misr El-Kheir Foundation, stated that the foundation focuses not only on meeting basic human needs but also on overall human development. Since its inception in 2007, the foundation has aimed to contribute to sustainable development within local communities by working in education, health, scientific research, social solidarity, and livelihood sectors. These integrated efforts are believed to enhance quality of life.

To support this vision, Misr El-Kheir established the “Arab Center for Sustainable Community Work” in 2019 under the NGO Development Program. The center aims to strengthen the organizational and institutional capacities of NGOs by assisting them in adopting modern administrative systems, quality standards, continuous improvement, and institutional sustainability. It also seeks to enhance developmental practices among practitioners, providing them with modern tools and methodologies to drive community change and achieve sustainable development.

Rifai noted that Egypt has approximately 52,000 NGOs, with around 36,000 having regularized their status. However, only a small number are actively functioning. He affirmed that Misr El-Kheir is committed to developing civil society, improving its capabilities, and enhancing its efficiency. The “Institutional Commitment Certificate” is a pioneering model in the civil society sector, developed with significant support from the National Governance Institute and the Egyptian Quality Association.

Rifai emphasized that Misr El-Kheir’s role is complementary to that of NGOs, providing a unique development model based on participation, respect for diverse opinions, and belief in their capabilities. The foundation collaborates with 5,000 NGOs, serving as its executive arm to reach the most in-need areas and individuals.

Rifai expressed gratitude to governmental bodies, the private sector, civil society organizations, and international partners for supporting the foundation’s efforts toward sustainable development.

Dr. Mohamed Mamdouh Abdullah, Head of the NGO Development Sector at Misr El-Kheir, explained that the Institutional Commitment Certificate is awarded to NGOs that meet specific standards in institutional fields such as integrity, transparency, accountability, adherence to local agreements and national strategies, focus on development priorities, good governance, access to information, equality, impact and effectiveness, partnership enhancement, and participation. These standards ensure improved performance and social productivity of the organization, thereby increasing its contributions to sustainable development.

He elaborated on the benefits of obtaining the certificate, including enhanced credibility and transparency with donors, partners, and beneficiaries; improved organizational performance and achievement of goals; increased funding and support from donors and social investors; strengthened ethical values at all organizational levels; and contribution to sustainable development through adherence to quality and sustainability standards.

Mamdouh highlighted that Misr El-Kheir offers the certification as a full grant through its Arab Center, with no fees for qualifying organizations. In the near future, the foundation plans to work with partners to issue several quality standards specific to NGO activities.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Planning and Economic Development – Egypt.

CraftTalk, a leading provider of innovative customer communication solutions designed specifically for knowledge management and text communications between companies and their customers providing support, marketing and sales instruments with use of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.

Download document (1): https://apo-opa.co/3RdTPc6

Download document (2): https://apo-opa.co/3Vu99E5

Founded in 2018 by engineer and self-made entrepreneur Denis Petukhov, CraftTalk has always been committed to changing the communication with clients for the better, making it faster and more efficient through building custom messaging and chat solutions for businesses to enhance customer engagement and streamline communication processes. Crafttalk’s cutting-edge technology and AI-powered platforms have revolutionized the way businesses interact with their customers, leading to improved customer satisfaction and increased operational efficiency.

“We are excited to be a part of Gitex Africa 2024, a prestigious event  that brings together industry leaders and innovators from around the globe,” said Denis Petukhov, CEO and co-founder of CraftTalk. “Our team is looking forward to showcasing our latest solutions and technologies that empower businesses to deliver exceptional customer experiences.”

At Gitex Africa 2024, it took place from May 29 to May 31, 2024, in Morocco, Marrakech. CraftTalk was showcasing its flagship products and demonstrating how businesses can leverage their communication platforms to drive growth and loyalty. Visitors could look forward to interactive presentations, live demos, and personalized consultations with CraftTalk’s team of experts.

Gitex Africa 2024 is a prime opportunity for CraftTalk to network with industry professionals, forge new partnerships, and showcase their unique value proposition to a global audience. The event serves as a platform for companies like CraftTalk to gain market exposure, connect with potential clients, and stay abreast of the latest trends in technology and innovation.

CraftTalk invites all attendees of Gitex Africa 2024 to contact and learn more about revolutionary communication solutions and explore how they can transform the way businesses engage with their customers.

For more information about CraftTalk and its participation in Gitex Africa 2024, please visit the website at https://CraftTalk.ru/. 

CraftTalk also has a special brand for foreign markets – Reply-hub, visit the official site to learn more: https://Reply-Hub.com/.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa.

For further communication:
oparanchuk@crafttalk.ru 

About CraftTalk:
CraftTalk is a Russian platform that provides businesses with tools for customer communication and engagement. With a focus on enhancing customer experience, CraftTalk offers features such as live chat, email and SMS marketing, and customer feedback management. It aims to streamline communication processes and help businesses build stronger relationships with their customers through personalized interactions and timely responses. CraftTalk’s platform is designed to be user-friendly, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes to effectively manage their customer communications.

Headquarters: Moscow, Russia | Offices in Moscow, Orel

For further information, please visit our websites: https://CraftTalk.ru/ and https://Reply-Hub.com/.

Merck Foundation (www.Merck-Foundation.com), the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany underscored their long-term commitment to inform, educate and raise awareness on sensitive social and health issues through ‘Our Africa TV Program’ during their high-level meeting with Mr. Joe Munene, Executive Director and Former Group CEO of the Standard Group, and his team. The discussion led by Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg Haverkamp, Chairman of Merck Foundation Board Of Trustees and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation.

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation emphasized, “I am pleased to meet Mr. Joe Munene,  our long-term partner, to discuss the impact of our first-ever TV program ‘Our Africa by Merck Foundation’. I strongly believe that media has a significant power to reach every household and be the voice of the voiceless. Through ‘Our Africa TV Program’, our aim is to raise awareness and create a culture shift across Africa on issues such as: Breaking Infertility Stigma, Importance of early detection&prevention of Diabetes, Supporting Girl Education, Ending Child Marriage, Stopping Gender-Based Violence, Promoting a Healthy Lifestyle, Ending Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Sustainability, and many more.

I am very excited to announce that “Our Africa” will be aired on KTN Channel, every Saturday at 5:00 pm&and repeated every Thursday at 6:30 am.”

‘Our Africa by Merck Foundation’ is a pan-African TV program that is conceptualized, produced, directed, and co-hosted by Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation to feature African Fashion Designers, Singers, and prominent experts from various domains with the aim to raise awareness and create a culture shift across Africa.

Watch the Promo of ‘Our Africa by Merck Foundation’ here: https://apo-opa.co/3x4Ifcs

Merck Foundation through “Our Africa” TV program, has established the first ‘Fashion and Art community with Purpose’ community across 24 countries to the voice of the voiceless break the silence and be about many critical and sensitive social and health issues in Africa and beyond.

The TV program has been broadcasted on prime TV stations of many countries, and is also on social media handles of Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej (Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3RdVvT8), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3RcCFeZ), Twitter (https://apo-opa.co/3x5PUY2) and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4aJfWy0)) and Merck Foundation (Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/3Xbc4D0), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/3x7ius3), Twitter (https://apo-opa.co/4aTy5sW) and YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/3XsF5dx)).

During their high-level meeting, the rising incidence of Diabetes&Hypertension was also discussed, and Merck Foundation also played their First Animation Film on Diabetes Awareness, ‘Sugar-Free Jude’.

‘Sugar Free Jude’ is the first Animation Film and an adaptation of the children’s storybooks released by Merck Foundation to raise awareness about Diabetes and promote Healthy Lifestyle, amongst children and youth in Africa and beyond. Through this, Merck Foundation wants to communicate an important message that diabetes can be prevented and managed with lifestyle modifications like going sugar-free, eating healthy, exercising regularly, stopping smoking, and limiting alcohol intake.  

Click here to watch the “Sugar Free Jude” Animation film here:

https://apo-opa.co/3XbzqZ8

Mr. Joe Munene,  along with his senior team members, conducted a comprehensive tour of their premises for the Chairman and CEO of Merck Foundation. During the tour, they exchanged insights on the most recent advancements in communication and printing technologies.

The media conglomerate also organized a TV interview with both Prof. Dr. Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp and Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej for the show ‘World Report’ on KTN Channel where they emphasized on the impact of Merck Foundation programs highlighting the important issues of girls’ education, women empowerment, and healthcare capacity building in Africa; and also, a Radio interview for the show ‘Spice Drive’ on Spice FM where they discussed ‘Our Africa TV Program’.

Interview for the ‘World Report’ show on KTN Channel: https://apo-opa.co/3yOtzP8

Interview for the show ‘Spice Drive’ on Spice FM: https://apo-opa.co/3RcCFM1

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Merck Foundation.

Contact details:
Mehak Handa
Community Awareness Program Manager
+91 9310087613/ +91 9319606669
mehak.handa@external.merckgroup.com

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Download the Merck Foundation App: https://apo-opa.co/3XaqF1f

About Merck Foundation: 
The Merck Foundation, established in 2017, is the philanthropic arm of Merck KGaA Germany, aims to improve the health and wellbeing of people and advance their lives through science and technology. Our efforts are primarily focused on improving access to quality&equitable healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare and scientific research capacity and empowering people in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) with a special focus on women and youth. All Merck Foundation press releases are distributed by e-mail at the same time they become available on the Merck Foundation Website.  Please visit www.Merck-Foundation.com to read more. Follow the social media of Merck Foundation: Facebook (https://apo-opa.co/4eaHtvi), Twitter (https://apo-opa.co/4e5VslZ), Instagram (https://apo-opa.co/4bLLxR0), YouTube (https://apo-opa.co/4bNF08i) and Flickr (https://apo-opa.co/3yLsSpQ).

KONE Corporation (www.KONE.eg), a global leader in the elevator and escalator industry, co-hosted an event with the Embassy of Finland in Cairo on June 4. The occasion was themed ‘Transformation starts now’ and celebrated KONE’s role as a trusted partner for smart and sustainable urban development.

A wide range of guests and keynote speakers included representatives from KONE Egypt and the Finnish Embassy in Cairo, highlighting the strong economic relations and cooperation between Egypt and Finland.

“Seeing how a Finnish company has implemented technology to create better urban environments around the world, is commendable and inspiring. It is an honor to co-host this event to celebrate KONE Egypt and reaffirm the company’s Finnish heritage of innovation and excellence,” said H.E. Mr. Pekka Kosonen, Ambassador of Finland in Egypt.

KONE’s efforts align with Egypt’s Vision 2030, emphasizing sustainable urban infrastructure as part of the country’s strategic development goals. “At KONE Egypt, we recognize our responsibility to help cities grow sustainably,” reaffirms Ahmed Fathi, Managing Director of KONE Egypt. “Just as Finland is leading the way in sustainable living, KONE provides innovative, carbon-neutral solutions throughout the entire customer lifecycle.”

The event showcased KONE’s latest technologies and services designed to enhance urban living. Attendees were presented with solutions for smart buildings, including advanced elevator systems, energy-efficient escalators, and integrated building solutions that contribute to reducing the carbon footprint of urban environments. Interactive displays and demonstrations highlighted KONE’s commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions.

In 2023, the company achieved its carbon-neutral manufacturing target globally, 18 months ahead of schedule. In addition, it has earned top scores on the global environmental non-profit CDP’s ‘A List’ for Climate Change (https://apo-opa.co/3KwxOl4) for 11 consecutive years.

“Our environmental responsibility also spans the entire product lifecycle – from design and manufacturing to end-of-life treatment, emphasizing sustainability, modernization, and recycling,” concluded El-Shater.

The event underlined KONE’s commitment to sustainability, including safety and quality, as well as ethics and compliance. It served as a platform for shared ideals for technological progress in the elevator and escalator industry.

KONE’s significant presence in Egypt includes high-profile projects in the New Capital and Al Alamein. Its solutions aim to make cities smarter, more sustainable, and better places to live.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KONE.

About KONE: 
At KONE, our mission is to improve the flow of urban life. As a global leader in the elevator and escalator industry, KONE provides elevators, escalators and automatic building doors, as well as solutions for maintenance and modernization to add value to buildings throughout their life cycle. Through more effective People Flow®, we make people’s journeys safe, convenient and reliable, in taller, smarter buildings. In 2023, KONE had annual sales of EUR 11.0 billion, and at the end of the year over 60,000 employees. KONE class B shares are listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd. in Finland.

www.KONE.eg