In a vibrant celebration filled with energy and purpose, Egypt’s National Council for Persons with Disabilities, in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, hosted a marathon on Sunday at the Gezira Youth Centre under the theme “Their Right to Joy, Our Duty to Protect Them.”
The event formed part of Egypt’s Childhood Day activities and served as a build-up to the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3. A total of 900 participants took part, including 400 children with different disabilities and 300 parents.
The marathon was supported by several partners, including Maadi Steel, Save the Children, and the UNHCR in Egypt, along with 15 civil society organisations involved in disability advocacy.
Children enjoyed a mix of sports and entertainment, including a puppet show, a magic performance, and an exhibition showcasing products created by individuals with disabilities.
Iman Karim, the council’s supervisor general, said the yearly marathon helps merge fun activities with awareness-raising, promoting inclusion, empowerment, and recognition of the rights of children with disabilities.
“The council continues to work actively to uphold the rights of children with disabilities in every sector, in strong cooperation with ministries and development partners. Empowering and protecting these children from neglect or violence is both a national duty and a humanitarian obligation,” she said.
Karim added that the event reflects the belief that “humanity has no limits and Egypt will always remain a country that embraces everyone.” The marathon also aims to bring attention to ending violence against children, especially those with disabilities, by encouraging awareness of their rights and strengthening social inclusion.
