Egypt’s Minister of Environment, Dr. Yasmin Fouad, and Fayoum Governor, Dr. Ahmed Al-Ansary, held a high-level meeting to review the latest developments regarding the “Safe Haven for Wildlife” project at Wadi El Rayan Nature Reserve, located in the Fayoum Governorate. This ambitious initiative aims to provide a sanctuary for endangered wildlife and boost eco-tourism in the region.
The meeting, attended by key figures from the Ministry of Environment and local authorities, including Dr. Mohamed Touni, Deputy Governor of Fayoum, and Dr. Ali Abu Sena, Head of the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency, centered on overcoming challenges and accelerating the implementation of the project.
In her remarks, Dr. Fouad highlighted that the project represents one of the most significant long-term environmental investments in Egypt, spanning 2,000 acres of the Wadi El Rayan reserve. The first phase of the project, which will cover 170 acres, is expected to be completed within three years. This phase includes the construction of necessary infrastructure and the creation of separate habitats for both carnivorous and herbivorous animals.
The Minister noted that the project aims to address environmental concerns while promoting wildlife conservation efforts, and emphasized that the Ministry is working closely with local authorities and the “Four Paws” foundation, which is collaborating on the initiative. Fouad also stressed the importance of adhering to project timelines and ensuring that all legal and technical procedures are followed to guarantee successful implementation.
“We are committed to creating a transparent, effective, and collaborative environment for this project. We want to work with all stakeholders to ensure that the safe haven becomes a reality,” Fouad said, referring to the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to resolve any outstanding issues and prepare for the start of the project.
Dr. Al-Ansary, for his part, reinforced the local government’s commitment to supporting the project. He emphasized the potential of the wildlife sanctuary to drive new tourism opportunities in Fayoum, thereby contributing to the region’s economic development and the broader national vision of sustainable growth. “This project aligns with Egypt’s broader development goals and will attract eco-tourism to the country, offering a unique opportunity for both local and international visitors,” Al-Ansary stated.
The Governor further confirmed that the local government is committed to expediting the necessary actions and clearing any hurdles that might delay progress. “We are working closely with the Ministry of Environment to ensure that all logistical, legal, and technical issues are resolved as quickly as possible,” he added.
The “Safe Haven for Wildlife” project is part of Egypt’s broader conservation efforts and aligns with the country’s sustainability strategies. It is being carried out in collaboration with the “Four Paws” foundation and follows a cooperation protocol with the Princess Alia Foundation from Jordan. This partnership marks the first such environmental collaboration between Egypt and Jordan, with a shared focus on enhancing the management and protection of natural reserves in the region.
With the support of the local community and various governmental and international partners, the project is expected to become a cornerstone of Egypt’s eco-tourism industry while playing a crucial role in wildlife preservation. If successful, it will also serve as a model for similar initiatives across the country, helping to safeguard Egypt’s rich biodiversity for future generations.
