Cairo: Minister of Local Development and Environment Manal Awad affirmed that the ministry is working to enhance the status of Egypt's protected areas as one of the country's most valuable national assets, helping transform them into world-class destinations for sustainable ecotourism. She stressed that investment in protected areas is guided by rigorous environmental and scientific standards that safeguard biodiversity and natural resources while promoting sustainable economic development, in line with the state's vision for the transition to a green economy.
According to State Information Service Egypt, these remarks came during an expanded meeting chaired by Awad to review the executive and investment plan for the Nabq Nature Reserve, the outcomes of the "Green Sharm" project, and proposed investment opportunities within the reserve. The meeting was held as part of the ministry's efforts to develop Egypt's protected areas under an integrated vision that balances the conservation of natural resources with their sustainable utilization.
The meeting was attended by CEO of the Egyptian Environmental Affairs Agency (EEAA) Sherif Abdel Rahim, Assistant Minister for Government Coordination Yasmine Salem, Assistant Minister for Ecotourism Hoda El Shawadfy, Assistant Minister for Planning, Investment and Institutional Support Mohamed Moatamed, Head of the Nature Conservation Sector Khaled Abbas, and Green Sharm Project Director Mohamed Aliwa. The minister listened to Eng. Mohamed Aliwa, who presented the executive and investment master plan for Nabq Protected Area.
The plan was prepared by a consultant based on several key pillars, foremost among them the environmental pillar, which serves as the foundation for managing the protected area. It also includes pillars for sustainable tourism development and economic activities compatible with its environmental nature, thereby enhancing opportunities for responsible environmental investment within the reserve.
Awad explained that the objective of preparing the final master plan for the protected area is to create a suitable environment for implementing eacotourism activities and sustainable investment initiatives in preparation for offering investment opportunities there while ensuring the preservation of its natural resources and the protection of its unique ecosystems as a top priority throughout all stages of planning and implementation.
The presentation highlighted the environmental, cultural, and geological value of Nabq Protected Area, including its diverse ecosystems, environmental activities, and local communities with their distinctive cultural character. It also reviewed the current status of the reserve; the environmental challenges it faces; ongoing human activities; as well as the legislative and institutional frameworks governing its management and protection, along with indicators of tourism demand for the area.
The meeting also addressed ecotourism development plans for the protected area, which include establishing eco-lodges and sustainable accommodation units, either through investors or in partnership with local communities. The plans also cover camping sites; educational, cultural, and community-based experiences; as well as environmental adventure activities, contributing to diversifying tourism offerings for visitors and creating a sustainable and integrated tourism experience.
The presentation showcased several proposed models for coastal and mountain eco-lodges within the protected area, in addition to the proposed facilities and service points. It also highlighted around 41 proposed investment opportunities that were developed in accordance with environmental considerations and the requirements for preserving the protected area's natural resources, ensuring sustainable economic benefits without compromising its ecological components.
Awad directed that a plan for the necessary infrastructure within the protected area be prepared promptly before launching the investment opportunities. She also called for providing parking areas for vehicles outside the boundaries of the reserve, using environmentally friendly electric transportation inside the protected area, establishing an integrated environmental monitoring and surveillance camera system, and implementing an advanced waste management system.
In a related context, Mohamed Aliwa reviewed the waste management system implemented in several nature reserves, including Nabq Nature Reserve, as well as efforts to establish a similar system in Abu Galum and Ras Mohammed Protected Areas. The minister directed the need to provide dedicated containers for collecting waste bags inside nature reserves and to develop an integrated waste management system at marinas and marine harbors. This would contribute to reducing waste disposal in the marine environment and protecting marine life, coral reefs, and water quality.
Dr Manal Awad also stressed the importance of ensuring the sustainability of maintenance and management operations for the marine buoys installed in nature reserves. She highlighted the need to contract a specialized company to carry out their installation and periodic maintenance, as well as to establish an integrated management system for mooring buoys designated for large tourist vessels.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Awad affirmed that the ministry will continue implementing its vision for developing Egypt's nature reserves by strengthening partnerships with various stakeholders and supporting responsible environmental investments. This aims to achieve sustainable development goals and enhance Egypt's position on the global ecotourism map.