As part of a continued series of reports detailing Egypt’s economic priorities for the fiscal year 2025/2026, the Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation has released an update on the government’s flagship rural development project — the presidential initiative “Haya Karima” (Decent Life).
The second phase of the Haya Karima initiative will receive EGP 25 billion in new investments under the FY 2025/2026 development plan, with a strategic focus on accelerating infrastructure development, expanding access to public services, and ensuring equitable growth across Egypt’s rural landscape.
Massive Scope: 1,667 Villages in 20 Governorates
According to Minister of Planning Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, the second phase of Haya Karima will target 1,667 villages across 20 governorates, with a population reach of approximately 21 million citizens. Notably, 29% of the targeted villages are located in Upper Egypt, underscoring the government’s focus on inclusive development in historically underserved regions.
“This initiative represents an unprecedented model of integrated economic and spatial development,” Dr. Al-Mashat stated. “It has gained international recognition as a best practice in accelerating the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”
Haya Karima was officially acknowledged by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA), listed on the SDG Acceleration Actions platform in July 2020, and subsequently featured among the Best International Practices in July 2021.
Technology and Transparency: The ‘Sharek’ App
To ensure public accountability and transparency in project implementation, the government has introduced a community engagement tool — the “Sharek” app. Through this platform, citizens can monitor the progress of ongoing projects in their areas and contribute feedback in real time.
The initiative also follows a data-driven approach to village selection, with clear parameters and evidence-based planning models guiding the allocation of resources and project rollouts across various regions.
Environmental Integration: A Green Development Agenda
In alignment with Egypt’s green transformation agenda, the government continues to integrate environmental standards across Haya Karima’s interventions. The initiative includes infrastructure upgrades in water, sanitation, and renewable energy sectors, with a special focus on sustainable resource use and environmental compliance.
National and Global Relevance
With a coverage of roughly 60% of Egypt’s total population, Haya Karima stands as one of the largest and most comprehensive rural development programs globally. It aligns closely with multiple SDGs, particularly those addressing poverty, health, clean water, sustainable cities, and reduced inequalities.
