Egypt’s national Hayah Karima (Decent Life) initiative has successfully established the first 20 startups as part of a major project aimed at fostering economic development in rural communities. The project, a collaboration with the European Union, the World Food Programme (WFP), and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), ultimately targets the creation of 120 new companies by its conclusion in 2028.
Quick Facts
- 20 of 120 targeted startups founded
- Focus on agri-waste value chains
- Project targets 120 villages across Upper Egypt
From Waste to Value
The newly formed companies are concentrated in the governorates of Assiut, Sohag, and Qena, focusing specifically on creating value from agricultural waste. According to Dr. Walaa Gad El-Karim, Head of the Central Unit for the Decent Life Initiative, these startups are turning local agricultural byproducts into animal feed and other commercially viable products.
The progress comes from the early implementation phase of the “EU for a Decent Life” project. El-Karim noted that despite being in its initial stages, the program is already showing promising results in line with its planned objectives. The young entrepreneurs behind these ventures received technical and financial support following a period of dedicated training and qualification.
A Broader Entrepreneurial Base
Beyond the 20 startups, the initiative is also building a wider foundation for local economic activity. To date, 56 micro-projects have been supported and are now operational for rural women, part of a larger goal to launch 4,000 such projects.
Additionally, a specialized training program based on the SIYB (Start and Improve Your Business) methodology has been launched. This program aims to equip 3,000 young men and women in the targeted villages with skills in project management, professional trades, and career guidance to connect them with available job opportunities.
A Collaborative Push for Local Development
Dr. Manal Awad, Minister of Local Development and Environment, stated that the project’s core objective is to capitalize on the infrastructure developed under the presidential Decent Life initiative. The goal is to generate sustainable employment and drive local economic growth that is both climate-compatible and tailored to the unique advantages of each village.
The program, which runs until 2028, is designed to support smallholder farmers, youth, and rural women by establishing production projects centered on agricultural value chains and food security. It also aims to strengthen local governance in directing economic development activities, a key priority for the Egyptian government.
About Hayah Karima (Decent Life) Initiative
The Hayah Karima, or Decent Life, initiative is a national project in Egypt launched to develop the country’s most impoverished rural communities. It focuses on improving the quality of life and public services through comprehensive development in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic empowerment, targeting over 1,000 villages across the country.
Source: El Watan News
