Egypt’s urban development plan is evolving beyond merely constructing new cities to encompass reconstructing homes for middle- and low-income segments.
The new presidential initiative, “Housing for all Egyptians,” exemplifies this shift.
With the goal of constructing 500,000 residential units across Egypt, the initiative responds to the country’s urbanization challenges, exacerbated by a population growth rate of approximately 2% per year. Egypt’s cities are grappling with overcrowding, highlighting the urgent need for solutions to alleviate pressure.
The “Housing for All Egyptians” project, prompted by President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi’s directive, enables citizens to pay for units without additional charges for land. The initiative aims to establish 500,000 housing units in major cities and governorate capitals, selecting premium locations and engaging experienced consultancy offices for design.
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The first stage of the project will provide about 30,000 housing units in new cities nationwide, offering a new approach for citizens to acquire suitable housing with financial support. Notably, the project includes segments not covered by previous social housing projects, expanding its reach.
This initiative is expected to enhance housing quality and provide a large segment of the population with decent homes. The United Nations underscores the importance of such projects, emphasizing the Ministry of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities’ prioritization of housing accessibility.
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Fathallah Fawzy, founder of MENA Group and vice-chairman of Egypt Businessmen’s Association, praises the initiative for potentially reducing population density in crowded cities. He credits the government for its efforts to provide citizens with affordable housing, noting previous successful projects in this regard.
In conclusion, the “Housing for all Egyptians” initiative represents a significant step toward improving the quality of life for all Egyptians, demonstrating the government’s commitment to addressing housing challenges and enhancing social welfare.