Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development, addressed the general session of the House of Representatives, discussing significant reforms in urban planning and the progress of resolving building violations across Egypt.
Reintroduction of the Building Law and Simplified Procedures
The minister announced that, in cooperation with the Ministry of Housing, the application of Building Law No. 119 of 2008 and its executive regulations resumed in March 2021. This step marked the cancellation of prior restrictive building and planning conditions. Key changes include adherence to approved planning standards, permitting commercial and administrative activities in residential buildings along wide streets, and streamlining the building permit process from 16 steps to just 8.
Efforts to Resolve Building Violations
Dr. Awad emphasized the ministry’s commitment to resolving building violations under fair legal frameworks. Since the introduction of Law No. 17 of 2019, approximately 3 million applications for reconciliation have been submitted. Of these, 1.75 million applications have been processed, achieving a resolution rate of nearly 60% as of November 2024.
To accelerate the reconciliation process, the ministry has launched comprehensive awareness campaigns encouraging citizens to complete the necessary documents and submit applications under the revised law. These efforts include updating the electronic system to simplify procedures and reduce waiting times. Additionally, over 7,400 employees have been trained to ensure efficient handling of cases and to address field issues through continuous daily monitoring and coordination with all governorates.
Enhanced Coordination Through Protocols
The minister highlighted the signing of several protocols with key authorities, including the Ministries of Awqaf and Agriculture, to streamline processes and enhance inter-agency coordination. A new protocol with the Ministry of Transport is also underway, aimed at further improving regulatory frameworks.
Dr. Awad reaffirmed the Ministry of Local Development’s dedication to refining executive regulations and reconciliation procedures to overcome challenges faced during implementation. The goal remains to provide fair, flexible, and simplified solutions, ultimately improving the urban planning landscape and citizen experience across Egypt.
