Egypt begins forming community economic development teams in Decent Life villages

Egypt's Ministry of Local Development has started forming specialized community teams to support local economic development in villages covered by the Decent Life initiative.

• Minister Manal Awad announced the formation of teams across 40 village units covering about 160 villages in Asyut, Sohag, and Qena governorates.
• The ministry trained about 140 local unit heads and staff from September 5–22, 2026, on selecting and forming the teams.
• Central unit director Walaa Gad El-Karim said the teams will draw members from NGOs, agricultural associations, youth center boards, and local business owners.
• Awad directed governorates to complete team formation within two weeks ahead of a further training program for members.