Cairo: Minister of Local Development Manal Awad reviewed the readiness of the Integrated Digital Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) System on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, highlighting the government's focus on advancing digital transformation and enhancing environmental services for investors.
According to State Information Service Egypt, during an extensive meeting, Awad emphasized the need to officially launch the platform. She underscored the importance of a comprehensive user guide to familiarize investors with the system's application procedures and mechanisms. This guide aims to allow investors to complete necessary procedures electronically, thereby promoting transparency and simplifying processes without direct interaction.
The system's initial phase is directed at accredited consulting offices and investors. Awad observed a live online presentation from the implementing company detailing the procedures of the system. She discussed the essential data requirements for efficient submission and instructed officials to expedite the platform's digital transformation, aligning with the state's broader digitization goals.
The minister examined the platform's interface, registration methods for consulting firms and investors, and the electronic submission and tracking of environmental impact assessment requests. She highlighted the system's role as an integrated tool to streamline procedures, enhance environmental services, and boost workflow efficiency.
The meeting also addressed the necessity of including precise project coordinates within application data to ensure accurate environmental assessments based on surrounding environmental loads and site characteristics. Awad directed that accredited consulting firms undergo training in system usage and data entry procedures. She also called for ministry personnel to be trained to ensure the platform's efficient operation.
Furthermore, Awad stressed the importance of linking the system to the ministry's spatial variables platform. This connection will help verify project locations, assess real-world conditions, and monitor any violations or spatial changes that could impact environmental evaluations.
In her concluding remarks, the minister requested that the system generate periodic reports detailing the average review and response times for environmental studies. These reports will enable performance monitoring and ensure accountability in cases of delays or shortcomings.