HSBC Egypt is involved in improving the densely populated and poor areas of Dar es-Sallam in south Cairo. After the January 25 revolution, many investors lagged behind when it came to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), complaining about the lack of cash flow due to slow business traffic. Nevertheless, this did not diminish HSBC's enthusiasm. They went on with their three-year project offering a better life to the inhabitants of Dar es-Sallam. The HSBC project, whose total budget has so far reached LE15 million, comprises different components that are co-implemented in conjunction with the Cairo Governorate, offering various services to this over-populated area, such as revamping a local market. The opening ceremony of the market took place on June 4, in the presence of Cairo Governor Abdel-Qawi Khalifa, HSBC Egypt Chairman Abdel Salam el-Anwar, and HSBC Egypt CEO Andrew Long. It was not HSBC's first contribution to the residents of Dar es-Sallam. The bank had already renovated and modernised several schools and installed a better drainage system, providing the students with a better and healthier learning environment. The project includes a centre that improves the citizens' life by offering sports and other activities, as well as paving Dar es-Sallam streets and upgrading several local medical centres. When the first phase of the project was completed, it was handed over to the Cairo Governorate. The next three phases will focus further on the shantytowns. Dar es-Sallam has a population of approximately 5 million in urgent need of many improvements. Ahmed, a resident, expressed his gratitude for the project. But he regretted that there was still a lack of ambulances, emergency services and fire brigades. He added that many streets still needed paving to make transportation easier. “We really need a hospital in Dar es-Sallam, since it is such a densely populated area. We also need an efficient sewage and drainage system to give our children a healthy and clean life. Other markets in vital locations also need revamping,” said Umm Farag, a dweller of Dar es-Sallam. The main demands of the January 25 revolution included equality and a decent life. People in Dar es-Sallam hope they will be met. “We really believe in the revolution and hope that it will fulfill our essential needs and help us get the rights we lost many years ago,” Ahmed added, hoping that the Government would take an active role in improving the shantytowns and the lives of their desperate inhabitants. Nations rise and flourish when their citizens are healthy and well educated; citizens who know their rights and duties thanks to increased awareness. The question is: Will Egypt witness such developments?
