Egypt’s Minister of Local Development and Acting Minister of Environment, Dr. Manal Awad, officially launched the Sustainable Development Strategy for Sharm El-Sheikh (SESSDS) in collaboration with South Sinai Governorate and the Green Sharm El-Sheikh Project under the Ministry of Environment. The strategy marks a major step toward transforming Sharm El-Sheikh into a green and sustainable city.
A long-term, participatory framework
Dr. Awad highlighted that the strategy provides a long-term, unified framework for sustainable urban development. It was prepared through the Green Sharm Project using a participatory planning process, including technical consultations, workshops, and stakeholder engagement, and defines clear vision, mission, strategic axes, and objectives.
The launch event was attended by Major General Dr. Khaled Mubarak, Governor of South Sinai; Dr. Ali Abu Senna, CEO of the Environmental Affairs Agency; Hoda El-Shawadfi, Assistant Minister for Environmental Tourism; Engineer Mohamed Aliwa, Director of the Green Sharm Project; Chitose Noguchi, UNDP Resident Representative; and other local leaders.
Translating national commitments into action
Dr. Ali Abu Senna explained that the strategy translates Egypt’s national commitments, including Egypt Vision 2030, the National Climate Change Strategy 2050, and COP conference outcomes, into practical, long-term actions for the city.
Major General Khaled Mubarak described the strategy as a roadmap for transforming Sharm El-Sheikh into a resilient and green city, enhancing both the local economy and quality of life for residents.
Chitose Noguchi emphasized that the strategy reflects a collaborative effort among the government, UNDP, the private sector, and local communities under the Green Sharm initiative, stressing that sustainability is a shared responsibility.
Sectoral focus for sustainable development
The SESSDS addresses key sectors including energy, solid waste management, water, sustainable transportation, and biodiversity conservation, providing a comprehensive approach to sustainable urban planning and environmental protection.
The launch reinforces Egypt’s commitment to green urban development and long-term sustainability, positioning Sharm El-Sheikh as a model city for environmental stewardship in line with national and international climate objectives.
