Dr. Yasmine Fouad, Minister of Environment, and Dr. Ahmed Al-Ansari, Governor of Fayoum, held a comprehensive meeting to review the progress of two major environmental projects: the Environmental Balance Restoration of Lake Qarun and the Safe Haven for Wildlife Project at Wadi El-Rayan Protectorate. The meeting received Dr. Mohamed El-Tony, Deputy Governor of Fayoum, Dr. Ali Abu Sanna, CEO of the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA), Yasmine Salem, Assistant Minister for Government Coordination, Dr. Mohamed Salem, Head of the Nature Protection Sector, Dr. Eid El-Raghy, Assistant Minister, Dr. Marwa Ahmed Mohamed, Technical Coordinator of the Safe Haven Project, and Dr. Heba Abdel-Hafeez, Member of the Minister’s Technical Office.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Yasmine Fouad welcomed Dr. Ahmed Al-Ansari, expressing her appreciation for the ongoing collaboration with Fayoum Governorate in the field of environmental work. She highlighted the importance of preserving natural resources and managing environmental investments, which have significantly improved the environmental conditions in the region.
The Minister emphasized that there are several joint environmental projects with Fayoum Governorate, including the Safe Haven for Wildlife Project, which introduces a new approach to biodiversity conservation in Egypt. The project provides social solidarity, creates job opportunities for the local community, and offers a unique form of eco-tourism. This integrated initiative aims to support Egypt’s goals in protecting endangered species and boosting environmental investments.
Dr. Fouad added that all necessary studies, including technical assessments, environmental impact evaluations, and economic studies, have been completed for the project. The general plan has been submitted by the project team, approved with the necessary amendments, and is now in the final stages of legal review to ensure proper implementation.
Governor Al-Ansari expressed his pride in the collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, commending Dr. Fouad for her efforts in promoting environmental protection, tourism, and investment in the region. He explained that the Safe Haven Project is a significant leap for environmental and tourism projects in Fayoum, as it will restore biodiversity, create new economic activities, and develop a tourism and hotel facility in the area. He also mentioned the partnership between the Ministry of Environment, Fayoum Governorate, Four Paws Foundation, and the Royal Jordanian Foundation in this project.
Governor Al-Ansari stressed the importance of adhering to all environmental regulations during the implementation of the Safe Haven Project and ensuring that the planned tourism and environmental investments are realized. This includes securing the necessary land and adhering to the established timeline.
The meeting also addressed the progress of the Environmental Balance Restoration of Lake Qarun, specifically the release of fish fry into the lake to revive its fishery resources and support local fishermen. Governor Al-Ansari reported the success of the fry release operations in recent months, including tilapia, shrimp, and bass, which have been well-received by the fishing community, especially with the increase in catch during fishing seasons, particularly for shrimp.
Further, an agreement was reached with the Fish Protection and Development Authority to schedule future fry releases. The Ministry of Irrigation and Ministry of Agriculture will also join to ensure scientific accuracy and proper implementation, which will ultimately support the lake’s fishery resources and safeguard the livelihoods of around 8,000 families dependent on fishing.
Minister Fouad and Governor Al-Ansari agreed to request the Fish Protection and Development Authority to take the lead in addressing challenges related to the lake’s environmental balance and to propose a fry release schedule for 2025, specifying the timing for each species. Dr. Ali Abu Sanna, CEO of EEAA, confirmed that the authority will provide the necessary fry for release by March of the coming year.
The meeting marked a significant step forward in enhancing environmental management and conservation efforts in Fayoum, with a strong commitment to sustainable development and the well-being of the local community.
