Sisi directs implementation of 'Greening Cairo' project, converting areas into green spaces - Sarmad

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has directed the government to adopt a project to “green Cairo,” aiming to convert any vacated area into green spaces.

Sisi’s directives come amid growing public discontent over the widespread cutting of trees in various areas, whether for implementing development projects or for other purposes, with the most recent case being the Arab League Street. This sparked a wave of anger and prompted an apology from the Ministry of Local Development, which pledged to replant the trees.

Sisi issued these directives during a meeting with Minister of Endowments Osama el-Azhar, Cairo Governor Dr. Ibrahim Saber, Major General Amir Sayed Ahmed, the President’s advisor for urban planning, and Major General Walid Aref, head of the Armed Forces Engineering Authority.

According to a statement from the Presidential Press Office, Sisi followed up on efforts to revive Cairo’s Islamic and historical landmarks. The Minister of Endowments presented the implementation status of the restoration and revival of numerous historic mosques and shrines, noting that ongoing efforts will extend to opening more integrated tourist routes linking many historical and heritage sites.

The Minister of Endowments pointed out that once all ongoing works related to the revival of historical landmarks are completed, “the heart of Cairo” will become an open attraction drawing increased tourist traffic.

For his part, the Cairo Governor highlighted efforts to revive many of Cairo’s Khedivial, historical, and Islamic landmarks, as well as the upgrading and development of infrastructure in historical areas and their surroundings.