Egypt launches fourth phase of national smart green projects initiative

Egypt launched on Monday the fourth phase of its National Initiative for Smart Green Projects (NISGP), a government-backed programme aimed at promoting sustainable development, climate action, and green innovation.

The initiative was unveiled by Minister of Local Development and Environment Manal Awad, Planning and Economic Development Minister Ahmed Rostom, Higher Education Minister Abdelaziz Konsowa, and Amal Ammar, chair of the National Council for Women.

The programme encourages youth, women, and private-sector participants to develop sustainable projects that address environmental challenges, improve resource efficiency, and create jobs. It also uses digital platforms to monitor and evaluate project performance, promote governance standards, and expand the use of clean energy and waste management solutions.

Awad said local governorates would play a central role in implementing the initiative, highlighting decentralisation, partnerships, and transparency measures to ensure long-term impact. She added that a nationwide awareness campaign would be launched and specialised committees formed in each governorate to manage and assess submissions.

Rostom said the initiative supports Egypt’s transition to a green economy and aligns with its Vision 2030 and National Climate Change Strategy 2050. He added that previous phases saw 4,859 projects qualify, with 54 winners and around 11,500 participants trained in environmental and entrepreneurial skills. Special categories for women and startups have been introduced to encourage broader participation.

Konsowa highlighted the role of universities and research centres in delivering practical solutions. UN Special Envoy Mahmoud Mohieldin said the initiative could help mobilise local and international financing for sustainable projects.

The fourth phase will open for submissions on 15 April, allowing applicants from all governorates to propose projects focused on energy efficiency, water management, climate adaptation, and green innovation.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English

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