Egypt’s Ministry of Local Development announced major achievements of the National Program for Community, Human, and Local Development “Mashro3ak”, revealing its significant contribution to job creation and entrepreneurship across the country.
According to a report received by Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development, the “Mashro3ak” program has, since its launch in 2015 and up to the end of September 2025, financed 228,000 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across all Egyptian governorates, with a total of EGP 36 billion in loans, generating over 1.5 million direct and indirect jobs for youth and women.
Empowering Youth and Women Through Entrepreneurship
Dr. Awad emphasized that the program reflects the directives of Egypt’s political leadership to expand support for small and medium enterprises as key drivers of economic growth and sustainable employment.
The Minister highlighted that the program’s success lies not only in its financial outreach but also in its comprehensive support system, which includes technical guidance, marketing assistance, and ongoing follow-up through a nationwide network of Mashro3ak offices.
Governorates Leading in Entrepreneurship
The report ranked Sohag Governorate first, with 24,600 projects funded by EGP 5 billion, creating approximately 164,000 jobs.
It was followed by Minya, which financed 24,300 projects worth EGP 3.5 billion, generating around 160,000 jobs.
Beheira came next with 20,500 projects valued at EGP 2 billion, providing 104,400 jobs, while Dakahlia recorded 18,900 projects with loans totaling EGP 2.4 billion, creating 109,000 employment opportunities.
Expansion and Future Vision
Dr. Awad revealed that the ministry is working to expand the Mashro3ak network by increasing the number of service offices in villages and local centers to reach more beneficiaries.
“The initiative goes beyond funding—it provides continuous technical and marketing support, helping ensure the success and sustainability of each project,” she explained, noting that the ministry closely monitors progress and removes any obstacles faced by entrepreneurs.
She also underscored the importance of intensifying awareness and training programs to inform citizens about the opportunities offered through Mashro3ak, providing feasibility studies and business development support to aspiring entrepreneurs.
A Decade of Inclusive Development
Over the past decade, Mashro3ak has become a cornerstone of Egypt’s inclusive economic development strategy, contributing to job creation, local production, and women’s empowerment. It complements national initiatives such as “Decent Life” (Hayah Karima) and “Takaful and Karama”, reinforcing Egypt’s commitment to sustainable growth and social equity.
