Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, the head of the Council of Ministers, announced on March 12, 2025, the Egyptian government's plan to launch 400,000 housing units aimed at various social strata, set to roll out post-Eid al-Fitr. This decision was reached during a pivotal meeting between President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Minister of Housing Engineer Sherif Shurbini.
Dr. Madbouly explained during this meeting the scale of this housing initiative, which he described as one of the largest housing projects to emerge from the Egyptian government in recent years. He emphasized the project’s goal of addressing the housing needs of young individuals and those with limited incomes, stating, "This project aims to meet the needs of young people and those with limited incomes, reflecting the government's vision to provide suitable housing for citizens across various regions of the country.”
This significant project will include units ready for immediate delivery, alongside additional units slated for completion within two years, ensuring timely support for citizens. Madbouly stated, "Some of the units will be fully finished, which emphasizes our commitment to providing safe and adequate housing for all groups.” He also pointed out the government's focus on social justice as it pertains to housing, highlighting the inclusion of various demographic needs, especially for youth and lower-income families.
Madbouly's announcement aligns with the government's broader strategy to combat the housing crisis currently affecting many Egyptians. This initiative will ideally provide numerous options at varying price points, which could stabilize rising real estate prices and contribute to the overall enhancement of the housing market. He stated, "This will contribute to solving the housing crisis and improving the standard of living for citizens, which is our primary goal.”
To bolster the economy, this housing plan is expected to generate new job opportunities in the construction sector, driving local economic growth and encouraging investment. Madbouly explained how the project is key not only to housing but also to stimulating other economic sectors: "By boosting the construction industry, we are helping to create jobs and stimulate investments within the real estate market".
While announcing this ambitious housing project, Dr. Madbouly emphasized the Egyptian government’s commitment to completing all initiatives on schedule and maintaining high-quality standards. He reaffirmed the importance of providing adequate housing for all citizens, stating, "The government's attention to provide social housing falls within our broader vision for urban development and housing expansion."
On another front, Amal Omar, head of the National Council for Women, made headlines recently during the activities of the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women at the United Nations, where she highlighted Egypt's efforts to empower women and improve social protection systems. She emphasized the importance of celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Action Plan alongside other global efforts.
During this UN session, Omar showcased the advancements made by Egypt, including government spending on social protection, which reached 635 billion Egyptian pounds for 2024. This spending covers various areas, including food support, health services, and cash transfers aimed at enhancing living standards.
"Our state is committed to ensuring social justice and integrating all individuals within society, especially vulnerable groups, including women. We proudly share our progress as we continue to implement effective policies aimed at improving the quality of life," Omar stated.
She also noted the increasing participation of nearly 22 million people benefitting from social programs such as 'Takaful and Karama', which helps around 4.7 million families. The potential growth and sustainability of such initiatives reflect the government’s intent to adhere to the principles of social justice, heeding the commitment to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. Omar expressed optimism for future collaborations, emphasizing the necessity of shared learning and cooperative engagement to strengthen the social fabric.
The government's latest laws also demonstrate its commitment to social equity, including legislation aimed at protecting individuals with disabilities and senior citizens. These reforms provide extensive social and economic rights, ensuring everyone contributes physically, socially, and economically to the state.
Further progress has been established through initiatives such as the '100 Million Healthy Lives' campaign, focusing on health, preventing non-communicable diseases and bolstering maternal and neonatal care. "Our efforts continue to seek comprehensive health coverage for all citizens, ensuring everyone has access to necessary services," Madbouly remarked, reiterative of the government’s drive for equitable health access.
From social justice to adequate housing, the Egyptian government remains steadfast on multiple fronts to address pressing societal challenges. The commitment to these diverse initiatives points to both immediate and long-term ambitions for improved quality of life for its citizens.
Continuing these efforts, both the housing initiative released by Dr. Madbouly and the social empowerment programs outlined by Omar represent distinct yet intertwined endeavors shaping Egypt's approach to national development and equality. "These collaborations are pivotal as we push forward on our agenda for sustainable growth and the preservation of human dignity," concluded Omar, signaling the road ahead is paved with cooperation and equity.