Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi issued Presidential Decree No. 111 of 2024, approving the agreement for the “Preparatory Technical Assistance for Sludge Management in Egypt” project. The initiative , funded by a €2 million grant from the European Investment Bank (EIB), will improve Egypt’s wastewater treatment and sludge management capabilities. In collaboration with the Ministry of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities, this project will tackle the environmental and health challenges associated with sludge, a byproduct of wastewater treatment.
Key Objectives and Benefits
The preparatory technical assistance program aims to develop a comprehensive framework for managing sludge across Egypt. The main objectives include:
- Infrastructure Development: Designing and improving wastewater treatment facilities, ensuring that sludge is managed and disposed of safely.
- Feasibility Studies: Assessing current sludge management practices and identifying areas for improvement, enabling tailored solutions for different regions.
- Policy Recommendations: Providing advice to the government on regulations and standards for sludge disposal and reuse, ensuring a sustainable approach to waste management.
The EIB’s involvement ensures that the initiative will follow best global practices in wastewater treatment and sludge management at both local and international environmental standards.This program is a crucial part of Egypt’s environmental agenda, helping the country address the increasing demand for wastewater treatment services as urbanization grows. Additionally, it will enhance the reuse of treated sludge in agricultural practices, such as improving soil quality, which could provide long-term benefits for Egypt’s agricultural sector. Furthermore, it presents opportunities for creating new jobs in the sector and fostering a culture of sustainable development in Egypt’s water management infrastructure.
