Y’AHL EL HAY: INCLUSIVE PUBLIC SPACE​ ?

In one of the poorest neighborhoods of the 6th of October city, a pressing issue emerged concerning the lack of safe spaces for children to play. The community was plagued by various hazards and anti-social behavior, leaving the children with limited options for recreational activities. This situation further highlighted the vulnerability of the community and the urgent need for an intervention that would address these challenges. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, a participatory approach was adopted to ensure the community’s active involvement in finding a solution. Local inhabitants were consulted, their voices and concerns were heard, and their perspectives were given utmost importance. Through this collaborative process, it became evident that a dedicated play and seating area was not only highly requested but also desperately needed.

With the community’s aspirations in mind, a transformative intervention took place – the creation of a public space designed specifically for children and their families. This initiative aimed to provide a safe and inclusive environment that would foster social interaction, physical activity, and positive engagement among community members.

The impact of this intervention extended beyond the mere physical transformation of the neighborhood. The community felt valued and empowered as their input and concerns were taken into account. The creation of the public space not only provided a tangible solution to the lack of recreational opportunities but also instilled a sense of pride and ownership among the residents.

Overall, the participatory approach employed in the creation of the public space played a pivotal role in addressing the challenges faced by the community. By actively involving the local inhabitants in the decision-making process and valuing their input, a sustainable solution was achieved. The establishment of the play and seating area not only provided a safe haven for children but also fostered community cohesion, resilience, and a sense of belonging.

Community Support Program

Location: 

6th of October – Egypt

Client/Partner:

  • UNHCR EGYPT- Community Support Programme “CSP” 

Caracteristic Elements:

  • Adequate and low cost Materials
  • Rapid realization
  • Design on-site
  • Occupied site while implementation

Team:

Insaf Ben Othmane H., Omar Wanas, Ahmed Mohamed Nabil, Heba ElHanafy, Layla Zibar, Mohamed Salah, Mohamed Badry, Loai Houssam, Samar Mohamed, Sara Essam, UNHCR CSP UNIT and Regional and Local Communites