Upper Egypt secured 68 per cent of the allocations in the first phase of the Hayah Kareema (Decent Life) Initiative, with 70 per cent of investments directed toward human development and 30 per cent toward green public projects. Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly reviewed these updates during a meeting on Monday, where it was confirmed that phase two of the initiative is scheduled to commence in the next fiscal year. Key Achievements in Phase One * 27,334 projects initiated, benefiting 18 million citizens in 1,477 villages across 20 governorates. * 366 per cent increase in natural gas connections, improving energy access for households. * 58 per cent expansion of sanitation services, addressing a critical need in rural communities. * 41 per cent enhancement in high-speed internet connectivity, fostering digital inclusion. The prime minister emphasised the urgency of accelerating sanitation projects, identified as a top priority for rural residents, and called for ministers to conduct biweekly reviews to monitor progress. With phase two slated for the upcoming fiscal year, the government aims to build on its progress by expanding services and ensuring the optimal use of newly established government service complexes, cementing its commitment to sustainable rural development. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: Y.Yasser