The Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) has taken a significant step in empowering Egyptian artisans. The GEM signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with key partners. They announced the partnership during the opening of the Turathna Exhibition 2024. It aims to support artisans through training, financial resources, and a platform to showcase their crafts at the GEM’s official gift shop.
A Collaborative Effort
The MoU brings together the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (MSMEDA), Legacy Development and Management (a subsidiary of Hassan Allam Holding and operator of the GEM), and MUSEEUM Business Consulting Company (operator of the GEM Official Shop). The signing was attended by Dr. Raafat Abbas, MSMEDA Deputy CEO; Eng. Merette ElSayed, CEO of Legacy; and Indjy Taher, Co-Founder of MUSEEUM. Witnesses included Mr. Bassel Rahmy, CEO of MSMEDA, and Dr. Ahmed Ghoneim, CEO of the GEM.
Empowering Artisans
The partnership will equip artisans with financial support, MSMEDA will provide funding to help artisans sustain and grow their businesses. It will also provide training programs, skill-building initiatives to enhance craftsmanship and entrepreneurial abilities.
Mr. Bassel Rahmy emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “This partnership ensures greater exposure for their products, helping them develop their skills and enhance product quality.”
Dr. Ahmed Ghoneim highlighted the museum’s role, saying, “The GEM is more than a cultural destination; it is a hub for creativity, innovation, and the preservation of Egypt’s legacy.”
Dr. Raafat Abbas, MSMEDA Deputy CEO, said, “Through this agreement, we will provide artisans with financial support and training programs to refine their skills and improve their products, enabling them to meet market demands better.”
A Shared Vision for Cultural Heritage
Legacy and MUSEEUM will work together to identify handicrafts that align with the vision of The GEM Official Shop. Eng. Merette ElSayed noted, “This MoU reflects our shared commitment to preserving Egypt’s cultural heritage while empowering artisans to reach broader audiences.”
MUSEEUM will focus on refining artisans’ designs, packaging, and marketing strategies to resonate with diverse audiences. Co-Founder Indjy Taher explained, “This partnership bridges the gap between Egypt’s rich artisanal traditions and global markets, equipping artisans to present their work on an international stage.”
Supporting Local Artisans at The GEM
The GEM Official Shop already showcases products from Egyptian artisans, offering them unparalleled exposure. This new collaboration strengthens its role as a vital platform for preserving Egypt’s artisanal heritage while supporting economic growth.
This partnership promises to sustain Egypt’s rich artisanal traditions and enhance their global recognition.