Engineer Sherif El-Sherbiny, Minister of Housing, affirmed that achieving sustainable development goals and enhancing the quality of life in Egypt’s cities is rooted in providing a variety of housing units that cater to all segments of society. These options range from luxury and middle-class housing to social housing and alternatives for unplanned neighborhoods. So far, 1.5 million diverse housing units have been completed, with another half million units under construction.
El-Sherbiny, speaking at the World Urban Forum, noted that the presidential initiative “Housing for All Egyptians” aims to bridge the housing supply gap and ensure housing rights for all social and economic groups. He added that 1.6 million citizens have applied for units under the initiative. To date, around 700,000 units have been completed, with an additional 218,000 in progress. For middle-class housing, 175,000 units have been completed, with 120,000 more underway, while for luxury housing, 48,000 units have been delivered, with 35,000 in development.
Addressing Unplanned and Unsafe Areas
The minister highlighted that the ministry is addressing urgent needs in unsafe and unplanned areas, identifying 152,000 acres requiring urban renewal. The government has eliminated 357 unsafe areas, creating 300,000 fully-furnished housing units for residents of these regions.
Expanding Fourth Generation Cities
El-Sherbiny emphasized the ministry’s drive to expand the development of Fourth Generation Cities, now numbering 38. These cities are equipped with essential amenities, green spaces, and public services that enhance quality of life while boosting investment and job creation. The ministry is dedicated to high-quality standards in all projects, with a focus on green spaces, sports facilities, and financial plans to ensure sustainable maintenance.
Forming Monitoring Teams for Project Oversight
The minister also spoke on the ministry’s oversight role, with monitoring teams to assess needs and issues and to supervise projects on accelerated timelines. By collaborating with highly qualified private firms for maintenance and exploring opportunities for private sector involvement in social housing projects, the ministry aims to elevate housing standards.
Concluding his address, El-Sherbiny urged attendees to work collaboratively toward a sustainable urban future. He stated, “We believe that our shared experiences and innovative ideas can inspire new approaches to comprehensive and flexible housing solutions, creating a future where every individual has access to dignified housing.”
