Egypt will step up monitoring of its nature reserves under a new programme aimed at preserving biodiversity, boosting eco-tourism and supporting the local economy, Acting Environment Minister Manal Awad said on Monday. The plan includes regular inspections across the country's reserves, Minister Awad said, with greater engagement of local communities and NGOs to support conservation and development. During a field visit to the Wadi El-Gemal Reserve on the Red Sea coast, Mohamed Ahmed Youssef, head of the Nature Conservation Sector, inspected projects including a mangrove expansion initiative carried out in partnership with the NGO Environment Without Borders Foundation (EWBF). The effort aims to enhance carbon storage and promote nature-based solutions to climate change. Youssef also met members of the Ababda tribe and local residents, stressing government support for small-scale projects such as medicinal plants and mountain honey production. He said such ventures could strengthen livelihoods while advancing sustainable development. Wadi El-Gemal, which spans more than 7,600 square kilometres south of Marsa Alam, is home to rare plants, endangered species and archaeological sites dating back to the Pharaonic and Roman eras. It also serves as an important stopover for migratory birds such as the Sooty Falcon. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
