Egyptian minister maps out $25.6bln development funding portfolio

Egypt's Minister of International Cooperation Rania el Mashat announced the details of the Official Development Assistance (ODA) mapping to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), according to a statement by the cabinet.

The launch of the map comes in light of a global need to accelerate the pace of development.

With less than 9 years left to meet Egypt and the UN’s 2030 pledge goals, el Mashat noted that it will need more effort, efficiency and effectiveness to make sound and well-informed decisions regarding future steps.

The map, which is available on the ministry’s website, displaying the portfolio that encompasses 377 projects and totals $25.6 billion.

It maps out the ODA’s allocation across the SDGs and across Egypt’s governorates. This pioneering approach showcases transparency and governance to the development partners, to the Egyptian people, and sets an example for other countries.

Expressing that the mapping approach enhances Egypt’s ability to meet development needs and priorities, el Mashat noted that it will support in pushing towards achieving the national 2030 development vision that is aligned with the UN SDGs.

According to the minister, mapping the ODA to the SDGs was implemented through two main methodologies, a Broad Sectoral Mapping Methodology and a Project-Based Mapping Methodology.

El Mashat also pointed out that the mapping approach works to accurately liaise the implemented projects with their corresponding SDGs.

The SDG allocation helps in creating purpose-driven partnerships that are more directed to effectively achieving impactful results, in bridging gaps in SDGs or sectors that need support, and in ensuring clear development visions.

According to the ODA-SDG mapping, Egypt’s most funded SDGs are SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy at a value of $5.9 billion, making up for 23.2% of the total ODA and 34 projects.

Next in line is SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure at a value of $5.7 billion, making up for 22.3% of the total ODA and 36 projects; and SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation at a value of $4.9 billion, making up for 19.4% of the total ODA and 43 projects.