Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly has ordered governors to strictly enforce a ban on felling trees without prior approval from the local development and environment minister. This move aims to protect green spaces amid growing public concern over tree removal in Cairo and other governorates. The directive was issued following a meeting with the Governors' Council, where Madbouly emphasized the importance of preserving trees and green areas.
Madbouly also directed governors to draw up plans to expand green spaces in their governorates. This includes planting trees along main roads, highways, city and village entrances, and road medians. Governors were instructed to identify vacant plots immediately for tree planting, consulting with experts on suitable species and using treated wastewater for irrigation where possible. This effort is part of the government's broader initiative to increase green spaces across the country.
The government's nationwide ban on tree felling and directive to accelerate tree planting along major roads are part of its 100 Million Trees initiative. This project aims to expand green spaces and improve environmental conditions. Last week, Madbouly directed the start of the "Greening Cairo" project, which includes planting trees along Cairo's Ring Road and other major roads and axes.
In addition to environmental initiatives, the meeting reviewed efforts to monitor markets and ensure the availability and price stability of essential commodities. Madbouly ordered governors to intensify inspections of markets and retail outlets, ensuring that all shops clearly display prices. This move aims to prevent price gouging and ensure that essential goods are accessible to the public.
The government has launched a price-reduction initiative, which began on 10 September and is expected to run for six months until March 2027. The initiative initially covers 12 essential commodities at reduced prices across around 284 outlets nationwide. The number of discounted items is scheduled to rise to 30 during September. This program aims to increase the supply of essential goods and stabilize markets and prices.
Madbouly also instructed governors to expand temporary exhibitions and markets during peak seasons, holidays, and special occasions. This aims to improve access to essential goods and help stabilize prices. The meeting reviewed the implementation of the price-reduction initiative, which is intended as a sustained effort to increase the supply of essential goods and stabilize markets and prices.
The directives issued by Madbouly reflect the government's efforts to address environmental and economic concerns. By enforcing a ban on tree cutting and expanding green spaces, the government aims to improve environmental conditions. Additionally, by monitoring markets and reducing prices, the government seeks to ensure that essential goods are accessible and affordable for the public.
Key points
- Egypt's Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly orders governors to enforce a ban on felling trees without prior approval.
- The government launches a price-reduction initiative to stabilize markets and prices.
- The "Greening Cairo" project aims to increase green spaces in the capital.
