The German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) has marked a significant milestone with the successful conclusion of the first phase of the Capacity Building through Urban Infrastructure Development project in Egypt. Funded by the German government and the European Union (EU), and carried out in collaboration with Egypt’s Ministry of Housing and the Urban Development Fund, the initiative has left a lasting impact on over 750,000 people across the governorates of Alexandria, Beheira, and Assiut.
Launched in 2020, the project aimed to improve urban infrastructure and essential services in underserved areas, contributing to both local economic growth and social development. The first phase focused on upgrading healthcare, education, and transportation services, with notable achievements including the renovation of healthcare facilities serving 140,000 residents, the restoration of schools benefiting 7,300 students, and the revitalization of public spaces used by more than 185,000 people.
In addition to infrastructure improvements, the project empowered over 800 individuals through vocational training, equipping them with valuable skills to help enhance local labor markets and contribute to long-term economic resilience. As the first phase concludes, the project stands as a testament to successful international cooperation, showcasing the strength of public-private partnerships in driving sustainable urban transformation.
The Road Ahead: Phase Two Expands to New Regions
As the first phase comes to a close, all eyes are now on the ambitious second phase of the project, slated to kick off in early 2025. This next stage will see the initiative expand its reach to include the governorates of Giza, Aswan, and Qalyubia, with a €22 million budget allocated for its implementation. The focus of Phase Two will be to continue improving urban infrastructure while addressing pressing challenges such as irregular migration, youth empowerment, and the further development of key services.
The second phase will also address issues specific to the new regions, including the revitalization of markets and infrastructure in Aswan’s villages, the modernization of public schools and markets in Qalyubia, and the upgrading of the old market and gardens in Edko, Beheira. These improvements will be key to enhancing the daily lives of residents and fostering sustainable economic opportunities in these areas.
Lorenzo Vingut Harrington, Team Leader of the Green and Sustainable Transition Cooperation Section at the EU Delegation to Egypt, emphasized the EU’s ongoing commitment to supporting community development in Egypt. He noted that the EU has allocated €75 million in funding to enhance essential services and promote local economic and social development in migration-prone areas. However, he highlighted that these funds have yet to be fully utilized, suggesting that further progress is expected in the coming months as the project moves forward.
A Model of International Cooperation
The Capacity Building through Urban Infrastructure Development project is a prime example of effective collaboration between Egypt, Germany, and the European Union. Over the past four years, the initiative has addressed urban challenges by implementing 17 key infrastructure projects and completing 15 administrative reforms across the three initial governorates. The project’s integrated, participatory approach has been vital in fostering local ownership and ensuring that the improvements directly benefit communities on the ground.
Karl Moritz Leifgen, Deputy Head of German Cooperation at the German Embassy in Cairo, praised the project as a model for successful international collaboration. He highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership, not only in addressing urgent urban infrastructure needs but also in contributing to Egypt’s long-term sustainable development goals.
Transforming Egypt’s Urban Landscape
With the second phase set to commence in 2025, the project promises to have an even greater impact on Egypt’s urban development. By improving access to basic services and empowering local populations, the initiative aims to create more resilient communities that are better equipped to face the challenges of urbanization, climate change, and economic transformation.
The expansion of the project into new governorates reflects both the growing success of the initiative and the strong commitment of all stakeholders to improving the quality of life for Egyptians. As GIZ, the German government, and the EU continue to support sustainable urban development, the project stands as a powerful example of how international partnerships can drive meaningful change at the grassroots level.
As Egypt moves into the next phase of this important initiative, it is clear that the Capacity Building through Urban Infrastructure Development project is more than just a collection of infrastructure upgrades—it is a blueprint for sustainable growth, community empowerment, and international cooperation in a rapidly evolving world.
