Nahla Zayed By: Nahla Zayed
In a move to reinforce the seriousness of foster care, Egypt’s Ministry of Social Solidarity has introduced a EGP 20,000 fine for families who return a sponsored child to state care without compelling reason. The policy, announced by the Supreme Committee for Sponsored Alternative Families, aims to reduce non-critical reversals and affirm that child sponsorship is a serious and long-term responsibility.
The issue gained emotional weight during Ramadan through the drama series “Welad El Shams,” where actor Taha Desouky powerfully portrayed the emotional toll of abandonment in his role as “Moftah”—a foster child left behind by his adoptive family. Several scenes captured the psychological scars left by such instability, sparking widespread empathy among viewers.
Commenting on the new regulation, Alaa Abdul-Ati, Director General of the Directorate of Family and Institutional Welfare, clarified that families are only permitted to return a sponsored child in cases where they are no longer capable of providing adequate care or a stable environment.
Egypt’s foster system—distinct from adoption—preserves the child’s original lineage in accordance with Islamic law. The Ministry continues to monitor families and institutions to ensure every child receives proper health, education, and emotional support.
“Welad El Shams” wasn’t just a drama series—it was a mirror reflecting the painful reality many orphaned children endure, and a reminder of the deep human responsibility involved in caring for them.
