For empowering Egypt’s civil society and promoting grassroots innovation, Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development and Acting Minister of Environment, participated in the official launch of the National Fund to Support NGO and Civil Society Projects. The event, hosted by the Ministry of Social Solidarity under the theme “Towards an Enabling Environment for Emerging Civil Society Initiatives,” was held in Cairo in the presence of senior government officials, development partners, and civil society leaders.
Among the high-level attendees were Dr. Maya Morsy, Minister of Social Solidarity; Dr. Amr Talaat, Minister of Communications and Information Technology; Amb. Nabila Makram, Head of the National Alliance for Civil Development Work; members of the House of Representatives; EU Ambassador to Cairo; the UN Resident Coordinator; and several representatives from NGOs, youth-led initiatives, research institutions, and the private sector.
Grassroots Empowerment P
Speaking at the event, Dr. Manal Awad described the fund as a “critical milestone in enabling community-based organizations and supporting youth-driven innovation.” She stressed that the initiative opens the door to wider participation in local development efforts—especially in underserved villages and governorates—helping to create real and sustainable change on the ground.
“The real strength of civil society lies in its close connection to citizens and its ability to understand daily challenges in a way that complements government work,” said Dr. Awad. “Supporting these organizations isn’t just about financial assistance; it’s an investment in human potential capable of building a stronger, more resilient Egypt.”
Civil Society as a Pillar of National Development
Dr. Awad underscored the Egyptian state’s growing recognition of civil society as a core partner in the national development process, working alongside government institutions and the private sector. “True development is achieved through collective effort, driven by a shared mission—to serve the Egyptian citizen and enhance quality of life.”
She noted that the Ministry of Local Development will remain closely engaged with NGOs across all governorates, offering technical support, coordination, and guidance to overcome barriers and ensure long-term sustainability of local initiatives.
Fostering Youth-Led Innovation and Social Responsibility
Dr. Awad highlighted the fund’s role in promoting civic engagement among young people, encouraging them to design and implement innovative solutions that respond directly to community needs. “When youth are given the right tools and a supportive environment, they create impactful, locally grounded solutions. That is how we build a stronger nation,” she said.
The fund is also expected to instill values of belonging, responsibility, and innovation, and nurture a culture of partnership between the public, private, and civil sectors.
A National Commitment to Inclusive Development
In her closing remarks, Dr. Awad extended her appreciation to Minister Maya Morsy and her dedicated team, commending their efforts in organizing the event and advancing a unified national vision for inclusive and sustainable development. She also expressed gratitude to all participating NGOs and youth initiatives, affirming the Ministry of Local Development’s continued commitment to supporting every sincere effort made in service of “our beloved Egypt.”
