Egypt’s Deputy Minister of Social Solidarity and Alexandria Governor Open ‘Diarna’ Handicrafts Exhibition

The “Diarna” handicrafts and heritage exhibition was inaugurated by Engineer Margret Saroufim, Deputy Minister of Social Solidarity, alongside Engineer Ayman Mohamed Ibrahim Attia, Governor of Alexandria, and Dr. Ahmed Zayed, Director of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. This event is organized by the Ministry of Social Solidarity in collaboration with the Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

The opening ceremony was attended by Rami Abbas, consultant to the Minister of Social Solidarity for ceremonies and exhibitions, Dr. Wael Abdel Aziz, head of the Central Administration for Development and Investment, Dr. Hala Abdel Razek, Director of the Social Solidarity Directorate in Alexandria, Dr. Mohamed El-Gohary, President of Borg Al Arab Technology University, and Magda Nour El-Din, General Director of Marketing and Exhibitions. A wide range of executive leaders and public figures were also present.

The “Diarna” exhibition will be open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM from June 15 to June 19 at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina.

During their visit to the exhibition halls at the library, Engineer Margret Saroufim, Governor Ayman Attia, and Dr. Ahmed Zayed explored various sections featuring around 70 exhibitors showcasing unique products rooted in authentic Egyptian heritage. The offerings include intricately hand-carved wooden items, artisanal leather goods, contemporary textiles made from unique cotton materials, vibrant carpets and kilims—all representing distinct artistic pieces crafted through traditional Egyptian weaving techniques inspired by local environments.

Engineer Saroufim praised the displayed products and engaged with participating exhibitors. She expressed her pride in collaborating with the Bibliotheca Alexandrina as it symbolizes a cultural beacon and plays a crucial role in preserving national memory while highlighting Egypt’s heritage for future generations.

She noted that this year’s exhibition features 70 exhibitors representing products from 27 governorates, including models created by individuals with disabilities. This fruitful collaboration among the ministry, the governorate, and the library exemplifies effective partnership driven by a shared belief that preserving traditional crafts is essential for maintaining national identity and investing in a cultural legacy that is one of Egypt’s soft power elements. It also underscores the significant social role played by the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in uniting state institutions to support this important initiative.

Saroufim added that economic empowerment programs within the ministry aim to leverage local communities’ inherited skills into sustainable economic opportunities for families. Supporting artisans and productive families while opening new marketing avenues for their products is a primary focus for the ministry.

She emphasized that specialized exhibitions serve as vital links between artisans and markets while promoting traditional crafts’ economic value and ensuring their continued presence in society as an integral part of Egypt’s identity on its path toward sustainable development.

Governor Ayman Attia remarked that “Diarna” exhibitions represent a successful model for supporting Egyptian handicrafts and heritage. They reflect high standards of quality in manufacturing, design, and finishing—showcasing refined Egyptian taste and ongoing creativity across various provinces from north to south.

He pointed out that these exhibitions are not merely platforms for displaying products; they provide real opportunities to highlight artisans’ capabilities while opening new avenues for local and international marketing.

Attia also noted that under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi’s leadership, significant attention is given to training young people and women across various crafts through the Ministry of Social Solidarity. Free training programs are available focusing on developing technical skills and marketing strategies to create sustainable job opportunities. He reaffirmed his full support for initiatives that enhance economic empowerment.

Additionally, he expressed his gratitude to all parties involved in organizing this remarkable exhibition for their outstanding efforts that contributed to presenting it excellently—reflecting Egypt’s handicraft sector’s importance while showcasing collaboration among state institutions aimed at empowering artisans and productive families. He encouraged Alexandria residents to visit these exhibitions to support local products amid ongoing efforts to restore the city’s charm as a capital of beauty, culture, and creativity.

Dr. Ahmed Zayed emphasized that hosting the “Diarna” exhibition aligns with promoting traditional crafts and Egyptian creativity at the library. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is committed to fostering community development as part of its role within the National Alliance for Civil Development Work. The showcased crafts exemplify outstanding examples of popular creativity reflecting Egyptian women’s skills in this field.

Zayed added that the library goes beyond merely providing spaces for product displays; it focuses on capacity building through diverse training programs targeting women, people with disabilities, and those in need—enhancing social and economic empowerment opportunities. Training is one of the most critical tools for refining talents and transforming creative ideas into sustainable projects capable of generating income for their creators.

He stressed that all training programs offered by the library are free as part of its cultural mission aimed at serving society without pursuing profit—underscoring that exhibited crafts showcase significant creativity and skill among Egyptian women and professionals in this domain.