Minister of Local Development Manal Awad has reviewed a progress report on the National Project for Community, Human, and Local Development—known as Mashrouak—from its inception in 2015 through to the end of May 2025. The initiative is a central pillar of the Ministry's strategy to encourage young Egyptians to launch small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), generate sustainable employment opportunities, and reduce unemployment. Awad affirmed that Mashrouak has become one of the Ministry's most effective tools in promoting entrepreneurship, supporting youth and women, and enhancing local development. It contributes directly to the state's broader efforts to harness the potential of young people and raise living standards, particularly in underserved communities. The Minister highlighted that the project continues to deliver strong performance across all governorates, helping to build a resilient base of local economic activity. In May 2025 alone, 1,206 SMEs were launched nationwide with support from approximately EGP 374m in loans, generating 6,077 direct job opportunities. Since the programme's launch, total loans disbursed have exceeded EGP 33bn, financing more than 215,000 projects across Egypt. These ventures have collectively created over 1.43m direct employment opportunities, reinforcing the initiative's role as a driver of inclusive economic development. According to the report submitted to the Minister, lending in May increased by EGP 148m compared to April, with 952 additional projects approved. Micro-enterprises alone accounted for 2,421 direct jobs created in the same month. Awad underscored that Upper Egypt remains a priority for the programme, continuing to receive substantial financial and technical support. The region topped the national list in terms of project implementation during May. Sohag led with 121 projects funded by EGP 55m, followed by Assiut with 118 projects and EGP 54.6m, and Beni Suef with 74 projects receiving EGP 14.3m in loans. In Aswan, 72 projects were financed with loans totalling EGP 52m. Beyond Upper Egypt, several Delta governorates also reported strong activity. Dakahleya saw 118 projects launched with more than EGP 18m in funding, while Sharqeya registered 92 projects backed by EGP 17.5m. Beheira followed with 91 projects receiving EGP 10.6m in loans. Awad concluded by reiterating the Ministry's commitment to expanding the reach of Mashrouak, enhancing access to finance, and supporting Egypt's broader goals of empowering youth, strengthening local economies, and achieving sustainable development across all regions.
