A high-level delegation from the European Union (EU) and its Member States, led by the Hungarian Presidency of the Council of the EU, recently visited Upper Egypt’s Aswan region to observe the positive impact of EU-funded projects.
In collaboration with the Egyptian Government and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), these projects address critical global issues such as education, climate resilience, refugee support, women’s empowerment, and nutrition. The delegation, composed of EU Council Working Party members, representatives from EU institutions, and 22 Member States, visited vocational training centers, agricultural projects, community schools, and nutrition units.
Advancing Food Security and Climate Resilience
A key focus of the visit was sustainable agriculture. The delegation met with smallholder farmers who have successfully implemented advanced techniques like solar-powered drip irrigation and land consolidation, supported by WFP and the Egyptian Ministry of Agriculture and Land Reclamation. These innovations have significantly increased agricultural productivity, offering sustainable solutions to climate change and food insecurity.
Empowering Communities Through Education and Skills Training
The delegation also explored WFP-supported schools, which provide nutritional support and cash incentives to improve school attendance and learning outcomes. Teachers have also benefited from training and digital tools to enhance the quality of education.
Furthermore, the delegation visited vocational training centers established under WFP’s refugee program. These centers offer skills training in carpentry, manufacturing, and digital technologies, empowering refugees and host community members to achieve self-reliance and economic inclusion.
Women’s Empowerment and Nutrition
The EU delegation also witnessed the impact of women’s empowerment programs, implemented in collaboration with Egypt’s Ministry of Social Solidarity. These programs provide training and micro-loans, enabling women to start their own businesses and improve their family’s income.
Additionally, the delegation visited health units under the Ministry of Social Solidarity’s “First 1,000 Days” Programme, supported by WFP. These units provide essential nutrition services to pregnant and breastfeeding women and young children, contributing to improved maternal and child health.
A Strong Partnership for a Sustainable Future
The visit highlighted the enduring partnership between the EU, its Member States, and WFP in Egypt. Earlier this year, the EU and WFP launched a €2 million program to empower refugees and host community members through vocational training and private sector engagement.
In 2023, the EU and its Member States provided €2.4 billion to WFP, demonstrating their commitment to addressing global hunger and malnutrition. This substantial investment continues to drive impactful development initiatives in Egypt and around the world, fostering resilience and empowering communities.
