Egyptian Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly chaired a meeting to review the executive status of the "Greening Greater Cairo" project. The project aims to increase green spaces and convert vacant areas into green spaces. The meeting was attended by several officials, including Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development and Environment, Engineer Randa El-Manshawy, Minister of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities, and Dr. Ibrahim Saber, Governor of Cairo.

During the meeting, Dr. Madbouly emphasized the importance of preparing a model for tree planting and greenery along main roads and squares in various cities. He stressed the need to choose tree species that are suitable for Egypt's environmental and climate conditions and require low water consumption. The Governor of Cairo, Dr. Ibrahim Saber, presented a proposal for a comprehensive plan to green Greater Cairo, aiming to improve the urban environment and increase green spaces.

Engineer Randa El-Manshawy, Minister of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities, stated that large public gardens are being planned in several new cities, including a large garden and artificial lake in the New Cairo city, on the site of a former landfill. Another plot of land is being prepared for a garden in the October Gardens city. The ministry is also working on preparing designs for a large Nile garden in the New Urban Community on the island of Waraq.

The meeting also reviewed the designs and plans for the Nile garden in Waraq Island, which will include open green spaces, seating areas, pedestrian paths, bike paths, restaurants, cafes, and a boat dock. The designs aim to provide a green space that serves the community and improves the environmental and aesthetic aspects of the area. Dr. Madbouly instructed the officials to determine a date for the official opening of the "Telal Al-Fustat" garden.

The "Greening Greater Cairo" project aims to improve the urban environment, increase green spaces, and reduce pollution. The project involves developing public spaces, choosing suitable plants, and utilizing treated wastewater for irrigation. The project's implementation is expected to have a positive impact on the environment and improve the quality of life for citizens.

The Governor of Cairo emphasized that the plan is not limited to increasing the number of trees or green spaces but aims to create a comprehensive system for greenery and urban planning. The plan takes into account the efficient use of water, reduction of operational and maintenance costs, and reuse of vacant and underutilized areas. The goal is to transition from viewing greenery as a decorative element to considering it an essential part of Cairo's environmental and urban infrastructure.

The meeting concluded with Dr. Madbouly emphasizing the importance of implementing the project's various stages according to the specified timelines and coordinating with concerned authorities. He stressed the need for periodic follow-up of implementation rates and addressing any obstacles that may arise to achieve the project's objectives and maximize the benefit from vacant areas converted into green spaces.

Key points

  • Egypt plans to establish large public gardens in new cities, including a large garden and artificial lake in New Cairo city.
  • The "Greening Greater Cairo" project aims to improve the urban environment, increase green spaces, and reduce pollution.
  • The project involves developing public spaces, choosing suitable plants, and utilizing treated wastewater for irrigation.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.