Egypt’s Minister of Social Solidarity Nevine al-Qabbag and the Ministries of Youth and Sports, Environment, and Local Development, on Monday participated in the seventh phase of the Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF SGP).
This initiative aims to empower NGOs through innovative projects addressing critical environmental challenges like biodiversity, climate change, and waste management.
El-Qabbag expressed her enthusiasm for the programme, highlighting its alignment with Egypt’s pursuit of a decent life intertwined with social and climate justice.
She commended the GEF SGP’s support for civil society organizations (CSOs) and lauded the nation’s vibrant environmental CSO landscape, boasting 2,800 active associations, including 274 dedicated to climate change with investments exceeding LE3.3 billion.
The Minister confirmed the diverse range of environmental projects undertaken by CSOs, including waste management, sustainable agriculture, green economy initiatives, smart agriculture, water conservation, and waste disposal.
She announced the selection of 16 projects from 7 governorates across 4 regions in the first phase, showcasing a balanced representation and exemplary models of innovation, social responsibility, and contribution to national and international development goals.
El-Qabbag emphasized the intrinsic link between environmental issues and poverty, impacting quality of life, economic development, and individual livelihoods.
She underscored the importance of environmental awareness, particularly among vulnerable groups, and welcomed further collaboration with the ministry of environment on its initiatives.
The minister concluded by applauding Egypt’s efforts during the COP27 Climate Summit, held in Sharm el-Sheikh in 2022, emphasising the nation’s commitment to climate justice and fair distribution of environmental burdens.
