The night sky over Cairo was a canvas of deep black when the Conference venue shifted to the Qubba Palace, a grand symbol of the Mohamed Ali dynasty, completed in 1872. Surrounded by lush gardens and tranquil waters, the palace stands as a testament to Egypt’s rich history, ready to host a historic moment for the World Scout Movement.
The guests and delegates arrived, finding their seats in the garden in front of a grand stage that blended in front with the palace’s façade. Special guests included ambassadors and ministers, representing member states and other high-profile guests, including HH Princess Sama Bint Faisal Al Saud of the World Scout Conference, occupied the front rows, while Scouts from around the world filled the seats behind them.
The ceremony began with the Egyptian national anthem being played and sung live by an orchestra and a choir. As the music played, everyone stands, the Egyptian Scouts leading the way with their voices, their arms raised in the Scout salute — a moment of pride and respect for the host nation.
The first speaker of the night, His Excellency Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of Egypt, joined online. In his speech, he underscored the vital role of Scouting in the modern world. “The role of Scouting becomes very clear as an essential mechanism in developing human values,” he declares, “teaching young people leadership and teamwork skills, enhancing the spirit of public service, and raising community awareness, integration, and interaction from the standpoint of their role”.
Dr. Khalid Al-Essawy, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Federation of Scouts and Guides of Egypt, followed with words that echoed the pride of the Egyptian Scout Movement, emphasising their commitment to the values and mission of Scouting.
Ahmad Alhendawy, Secretary General of World Scouting, then addressed the audience. His speech offered a powerful reminder of the responsibilities of the Scout Movement. “Our mission as the world’s leading educational youth movement has never been more relevant, and our role in shaping the leaders of today and tomorrow has never been more critical. The World Scout Conference is an opportunity to celebrate the impact of the past decade, but also to look forward and think boldly about the future. To embrace a vision for Scouting that will create change in the world around us, while continuing to offer transformative learning experiences for every young person everywhere.”
A video presentation followed, transporting the audience back in time to the ancient halls of the Egyptian Museum. The video explored the deep connections between Egypt’s ancient heritage and the principles of Scouting—knots, outdoor skills, and exploration—drawing a symbolic link between the past and the present.
Next, Amina Mohamed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, took to the stage. Her words resonated with the gravity of the moment: “Since young people will be running the future, the World Scout Conference is more important than ever. We don’t change our opinions in the wind; we have the courage of our convictions. Because our decisions are based on our global values. Those values never go out of fashion. Trustworthiness, loyalty, collaboration, and bravery are the core of the Scout Movement”.
In a symbolic gesture, the flame of the World Scout Conference was handed over to Dr. Ashraf Sobhi, Minister of Youth and Sports of Egypt, signifying the unity and continuity of the global Scout Movement.
Dr. Ashraf Sobhi then delivered his speech, acknowledging the honour and responsibility of hosting this global gathering in Egypt and the pivotal role the nation plays in shaping the future of Scouting.
The ceremony reached its climax when the Egyptian Scouts Drumline took the stage, filling the air with the vibrant sounds of drums and strings and a rousing rendition of the anthem of the World Scout Conference. The anthem, sung in English, French, Arabic, and Spanish, brought the audience to their feet, dancing and singing in celebration of the global unity that Scouting embodies.
As the final notes of the anthem faded, the ceremony drew to a close. Attendees, filled with inspiration and a sense of shared purpose, made their way back to their hotels. The march back symbolised not just the end of the first day but the beginning of six more days that will shape the future of the Scout Movement.
