Philip Morris partnered with Injaz Misr, as the world’s largest tobacco firm exerts more effort in supporting local communities in the countries it works in de-stereotyping the image of tobacco companies and the industry.
Injaz Misr, a non-profit organisation and Philip Morris Egypt launched their first initiative, “San3ety” (my craftsmanship) Ganoub Al-Wadi, which focuses on establishing a supportive environment for innovation and entrepreneurship, in order to create more jobs in Upper Egypt.
Managing Director Phillip Morris Egypt and the Levant, Vassilis Gkatzelis, highlighted in his speech during the launching ceremony that entrepreneurship is one of the most important pillars upon which the state could depend on to support local industries, “local businesses can significantly contribute to support the national economy, that is why our initiative targets the provinces of Upper Egypt.” he added.
In a recent interview with Daily News Egypt, Gkatzelis said that the company would like to offer better alternatives to adult smokers in the country, giving a hint about the company’s plan to transform to iqos rather than cigarette smoking.
Philip Morris has a 22% market share with a labour power of 2,500 of direct and indirect employees in Egypt. It is a global cigarette and tobacco manufacturing company, and its products are sold in over 180 countries.
Dahlia Helaly, co-founder of Injaz Misr, pointed out the importance of empowering young people to accomplish their dreams, which will also help to develop Egypt’s economy. “The initiative is adopting a long-term sustainable approach to create a new generation of young people by training and providing them with all the needed skills that will allow them to find a place in the labour market and provide effective solutions to manage their businesses”, Helaly added.
The 16-month initiative is targeting students and fresh graduates of technical and vocational institutions in the provinces of Assiut, Sohag, Qena, Luxor and Aswan. It has three phases from generating project ideas passing by developing a prototype of projects and finally joining Injaz’s business incubator, where participants will get financial and logistical support for their startups.
