Women’s leadership and green innovation took center stage at a national forum organized by the Federation of Egyptian Chambers of Commerce, emphasizing their growing role in Egypt’s sustainable development and economic empowerment agenda.
The event, titled “Path-Making Leaders and Decision-Making Pioneers,” brought together senior officials, chamber representatives, and female entrepreneurs in collaboration with the Women’s Economic Council, headed by Reem Siam. The forum focused on promoting women’s participation in the economy and integrating them into Egypt’s National Initiative for Smart Green Projects.
Women at the Center of Economic Strategy
Hala El Said, Economic Advisor to H.E. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, highlighted that women’s empowerment is no longer a social objective but an economic imperative. While constitutional reforms have raised women’s parliamentary representation from 2% to over 27%, female unemployment remains three times higher than men’s.
“Eliminating these gaps requires targeted investment in women’s skills, particularly in technology and digital transformation, to expand their participation in the labor market,” she said.
Linking Empowerment to Green Innovation
The forum placed the National Initiative for Smart Green Projects at the forefront of discussions. Hesham Badr, Assistant Minister of Planning for Strategic Partnerships and General Coordinator of the initiative, announced that the fourth phase—launching next month—will include a dedicated category for women-led projects.
Twelve projects were presented, covering clean energy, fuel efficiency, sustainable transport, and solar-powered vehicles. The initiative has attracted roughly 17,000 projects nationwide, reflecting strong engagement from across Egypt.
Government and Civil Society Alignment
Nabila Makram, Head of the Technical Secretariat of the National Alliance for Civil Development Work, emphasized that long-term collaboration between government institutions and the private sector is crucial for empowering women economically. She noted that women’s participation is essential for inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Chambers of Commerce Drive Local Impact
Representatives from regional chambers highlighted the role of the Federation of Egyptian Chambers of Commerce in translating national strategies into practical opportunities for women at the local level. The initiative was described as a transformative platform that enables women to move from informal economic roles into leadership positions in sustainable enterprises.
Key actions proposed included:
- Expanding training programs in entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and digital marketing
- Providing technical support for project development and feasibility studies
- Facilitating market access through exhibitions and trade fairs
- Strengthening women’s economic councils as bridges between entrepreneurs and policymakers
Expanding Opportunities Nationwide
Forum participants underscored the initiative’s potential to foster inclusive growth, particularly in underserved regions. They emphasized that women-led projects focusing on innovation and sustainability could reshape local economies. Officials also called for broader awareness campaigns and stronger institutional partnerships to ensure wide participation from entrepreneurs, small business owners, and innovators.
A Strategic Vision for the Future
The forum reinforced that the National Initiative for Smart Green Projects is more than a development program—it is a strategic framework for redefining women’s role in Egypt’s economy. By combining environmental sustainability with economic empowerment, the event highlighted a national priority: women leaders are essential to building a resilient, competitive, and sustainable future.
