The Diarna Exhibition for Handicrafts and Heritage is to run from Thursday, 23 February at Cairo Festival City, New Cairo until 11 March.
Minister of Social Solidarity Nevine el-Qabbag said this year’s event, themed ‘Egypt talks handicrafts’, celebrates the culture and arts of Siwa, a unique city and oasis.
Siwa, this year’s guest of honour, is a cultural beacon for genuine Egyptian heritage and this exhibition is an opportunity to market environment-friendly products and support casual employment, the minister said.
Disabled craftspeople will be taking part in the event in addition to several eco-friendly societies, the minister added.
This year’s edition of the exhibition is also inspired by Old Cairo, highlighting arabesque art in copper and glass, and products related to the holy fasting month of Ramadan and Mother’s Day, such as home decoration, fashion and accessories.
Some 400 exhibitors from 20 governorates will be taking part to promote beadwork, decorated leather, mosaic and embroidery.
The ministries of culture, youth and sports, industry, local development, environment, and public business sector, in addition to and the National Council for Women, will be represented at the exhibition, which is being held in partnership with the Egyptian Bank of Alexandria, Sawiris Foundation for Social Development, the European Union (EU) in Egypt and Al-Futtaim Group Egypt.
