In line with the directives of Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development and Acting Minister of Environment, the Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), organized a dialogue session in Qena titled “Urban and Tourism Development in the Context of Climate Change.” The session was attended by Dr. Khaled Abdel Halim, Governor of Qena, alongside senior ministry officials, representatives from government agencies, the private sector, and civil society.

Sustainable Challenges and Solutions

During his speech, the governor highlighted Qena’s ongoing efforts to transform into a green and sustainable governorate, emphasizing that addressing environmental challenges and raising climate awareness are national priorities aligned with Egypt Vision 2030. He also outlined major projects aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting balanced development.

Active Participation from Environmental Leaders

Eng. Samah Saleh, Head of the Sustainable Development Unit at the Ministry of Environment, stressed the importance of community dialogues as platforms for exchanging ideas on climate-related issues and their relationship to sustainable development.

Eng. Lydia Aliwa, Director General of Climate Change Technology and Research, addressed the climate challenges facing cities and tourist destinations and emphasized the importance of green tourism.

Eng. Hussein Mohamed, Head of the Qena Branch of the Environmental Affairs Agency, highlighted the ministry’s efforts to raise environmental awareness and promote community engagement.

UN Support for Local Projects

Dr. Ahmed Dargami, Director of Basic Services and Climate Change Programs at UN-Habitat, presented ongoing projects in Qena, including:

• “Hayyena”: Climate-resilient urban planning initiative.
• Qena/ Luxor Cycling Project: Promoting smart mobility.
• Dendera Project: Reviving archaeological heritage and linking it to sustainable economic development.

Part of a National Dialogue Series

The session is part of a nationwide series of dialogues organized by the Ministry of Environment, aimed at integrating climate and environmental considerations into local development plans and building an informed, active community on climate issues.