Developing villages starts by upgrading women

Egypt's First Lady Suzanne Mubarak Wednesday said that every man and woman should contribute to development.

Speaking at a celebration in Qena Wednesday on the occasion of the Rural Women's Day, which is observed in October, Mrs. Mubarak said that celebrations of the Rural Women's. Day are now being held in an increasing number of countries allover the world.

Mrs. Mubarak said that the state is giving every attention to the welfare of women allover Egypt. She added that development starts by improving women's conditions. She underlined that President Hosni Mubarak is always supporting Egyptian women and is removing all forms of gender discrimination.

“Rural women play a vital role in the economic, social and educational fields,” Mrs. Mubarak noted.

The National Council for Women is carrying out projects to serve rural women. Loans were given to more than 5,000 women in 11 villages to carry out productive projects.

The needs of rural women will be taken into consideration when drawing the five-year (2007-2012) plan.

About 300,000 young men and women are compiling data on the needs of women and families.

This is being done in collaboration between the National Council for Women and the Cabinet Information and Decision-Support Center (IDSC).

Mrs. Mubarak Wednesday opened an exhibition of the products of rural women and the Red Crescent Hospital and a girls club in Qena.

On the other hand, Mrs. Mubarak opens Thursday evening Mokhtar Museum in Zamalek district after developing it with a cost of L.E 5 million.