Engineer Sherif El Sherbiny, Minister of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities, opened the 9th edition of the Egypt Builders Forum with gratitude to the African Union of Construction Contractors for organizing this significant event, which brings together diverse expertise to discuss collaborative opportunities for development.
El Sherbiny emphasized that urban development is a top priority for the Egyptian state within the comprehensive “Egypt Vision 2030.” The primary goal of this vision is to enhance the quality of life for Egyptian citizens and improve living standards, aligning with the New Urban Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, particularly Goal 11, which calls for inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities.
The minister stated that, under the directives of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, the Egyptian government has prioritized urban development, addressing long-standing issues while also representing a key component of economic growth and encouraging both national and foreign investment.
El Sherbiny noted the successful implementation of various development projects in housing, upgrading unsafe areas, creating new cities, and improving water and sanitation systems, all in collaboration with the private sector and construction companies that have gained valuable experience from these diverse national projects.
He added that the forum’s theme, “Opportunities for Egyptian Companies in Regional Development Plans,” aligns with the Ministry of Housing’s objectives for the upcoming phase. In addition to the government’s vision of exporting real estate, the accumulated experience from years of executing a wide range of projects has positioned Egypt to export expertise in construction. He pledged his support for Egyptian companies to expand their presence in Africa and the Arab region.
Furthermore, the minister highlighted the signing of several cooperation protocols with African nations this year, aimed at involving construction companies and developers in sharing the Egyptian experience. He announced that the ministry will host the African ministerial meeting on the sidelines of the World Urban Forum to exchange experiences and showcase the Egyptian model while enhancing future participation opportunities.
El Sherbiny concluded his speech by inviting all private sector companies involved in urban development to participate in the World Urban Forum and to continue collaborating with the Egyptian government on the projects of the New Republic.
