Egypt Launches “100 Million Trees” Campaign to Combat Climate Challenges
In response to the pressing climate challenges and the country’s rapidly growing population, several Egyptian ministries have come together to launch the ambitious “100 Million Trees” campaign. This initiative is part of a comprehensive national strategy aimed at increasing per-capita green space across the country.
The project involves a meticulous approach to tree planting, monitoring new plantings, tracking existing ones, and creating a detailed plan for the types of trees to be planted in each governorate based on their unique characteristics. The focus is on tree species with high economic value that can also promote investment in green projects.
The Environment Ministry is spearheading the preparations for the campaign’s second phase, collaborating with other key ministries such as Local Development, Housing, Water Resources and Irrigation, Agriculture, and Higher Education. The government is committed to cracking down on encroachment on agricultural land and implementing various afforestation initiatives nationwide.
According to the Egyptian prime minister’s website, the “100 Million Trees” initiative is estimated to cost 3 billion Egyptian pounds ($62.5 million). It aims to target approximately 9,900 locations, covering a total area of 6,600 acres to be developed as forested areas or gardens utilizing treated wastewater.
The Ministry of Local Development has taken on the responsibility of planting 80 million trees over a seven-year period from 2022 to 2029, while the Ministries of Environment and Housing will oversee the planting of the remaining 20 million trees.
Ahmed Al-Fakharany, an official at the Ministry of Local Development, emphasized that the second phase of the campaign will see 15 million trees planted by the ministries of Agriculture, Environment, and Housing. Governorates are currently preparing reports on the required number and types of trees for this phase.
“The role of the Ministry of Local Development is to coordinate the supply of trees, identify suitable locations for new gardens in cities and districts, and ensure that local units and directorates plant trees that enhance aesthetic appeal and environmental conservation,” Al-Fakharany explained. Careful consideration is given to selecting tree species that meet specific criteria.
Cairo has taken the lead among governorates in the initiative by planting 1.5 million trees so far. Giza, located south of Cairo, follows closely with 585,000 trees planted. In Upper Egypt, Sohag has planted 404,000 trees, while Sharqia in northern Cairo has planted 393,900 trees.
The “100 Million Trees” campaign represents a significant step forward in Egypt’s efforts to combat climate change, enhance green spaces, and promote sustainable development. By focusing on strategic tree planting and collaboration across ministries, the country is taking proactive measures to address environmental challenges and create a greener future for its citizens.