The Ministry of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities has announced the launch of the second phase of the presidential “Haya Karima” initiative aimed at developing Egypt’s rural areas. Engineer Sherif El-Sherbiny, the Minister of Housing, detailed the ministry’s ongoing efforts during a parliamentary session.
Progress in the First Phase
The first phase, set to conclude by the end of 2024, has made significant advancements:
- Comprehensive Sanitation Projects: Implemented across 27 centers in 242 villages, with additional expansions in 372 already-serviced villages.
- Water Supply Enhancements: Projects underway in 718 villages, including the construction and rehabilitation of 181 water treatment plants with a capacity of 1.22 million cubic meters per day.
Launch of the Second Phase
The second phase targets 31 centers, encompassing approximately 740 villages, with an execution timeline of three years.
Historic Cairo Revitalization
Under the initiative “Reviving the Historic Heart of Cairo,” the ministry is restoring key heritage sites:
- Zeinab Khatoun House: A historic Islamic-era home in Cairo, dating back to the 10th century, has been fully restored.
- Qaytbay Agency: Transforming this Mamluk-era architectural gem in Bab El-Nasr into a boutique heritage hotel, with restoration supervised by the Ministry of Antiquities.
Other Key Projects
- “Ahl Misr Walkway”: A scenic riverside promenade along the Nile in Cairo, providing a public recreational space.
- “The Great Transfiguration Project” in Saint Catherine:
This large-scale development includes:- Visitor centers, museums, and eco-lodges.
- Government and security complexes.
- A revamped city center, tourist bazaars, and a social club.
- Improved housing for Bedouins and upgraded infrastructure in Wadi El-Arbaeen and other areas.
The ministry continues to collaborate with the Armed Forces Engineering Authority to ensure the success of the initiative, reflecting Egypt’s commitment to rural development, heritage preservation, and sustainable urban growth.