In a step that reflects Egypt’s continued commitment to supporting global environmental efforts through local action, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Egypt hosted the first meeting of the National Steering Committee for the Eighth Operational Phase of the Global Environment Facility’s Small Grants Programme (GEF/SGP). The meeting was chaired by Ms. Chitoshi Nouguchi, UNDP Resident Representative in Egypt, and attended by Dr. Hala Yousry, Chair of the National Steering Committee, and Dr. Emad Adly, National Coordinator of the Small Grants Programme.
The meeting brought together representatives from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Environment, and Social Solidarity, alongside civil society organizations, and national experts in global environmental issues. This reflects the participatory approach that has characterized the Small Grants Programme since its establishment in Egypt. The programme aims to support community-based environmental initiatives by funding local projects that address climate change, conserve biodiversity, combat land degradation, and reduce persistent organic pollutants—all within an integrated vision that delivers global environmental benefits through local action.
The first meeting of the Steering Committee for the eighth phase discussed several key issues shaping the new phase, most notably:
- Reaffirming the continued partnership with the Arab Office for Youth and Environment as the national host institution for the programme in Egypt, ensuring institutional expertise and the strong implementation structure that distinguished previous phases.
- Emphasizing the need to focus on the sustainability and economic viability of projects after the grant period ends, to ensure lasting positive impact on local communities and enhance their self-reliance in managing environmental resources.
- Stressing the importance of integrating gender equality as a core criterion in project design and selection, to ensure fair participation and genuine empowerment of women in leading community environmental initiatives.
The meeting also discussed and approved a grievance mechanism to ensure transparency and accountability throughout all implementation stages. Additionally, the first call for project proposals under the eighth phase was officially announced, opening the door for local civil society organizations to submit their ideas and initiatives.
In conclusion, participants expressed their aspiration for a new phase of fruitful cooperation between national and international partners through the Small Grants Programme—a successful model for stimulating local action to achieve global environmental benefits and support sustainable development in Egyptian communities. This is done through practical projects that translate global environmental goals into tangible, ground-up solutions rooted in the real needs of citizens.