Speaking on her behalf at a panel hosted by the Health and Population Ministry during the Global Congress on Population, Health and Human Development, Nagglaa El-Adly said the Local Development Ministry is working with domestic and international partners to strengthen governorate-level planning, implementation and accountability.

Officials from Qena and Damietta governorates highlighted local projects that integrated climate action and migration into development plans. Qena Governor Khaled Abdel Halim said the Upper Egypt development program has created about 61,000 jobs since 2016 and helped cut poverty and unemployment.

Damietta Governor Ayman El-Shehaby said the coastal governorate was prioritising climate-adaptation measures, including sea-level monitoring, flood preparedness and improved infrastructure.

Health ministry spokesperson Hossam Abdel Ghaffar said the session showcased decentralised governance models that boost services, infrastructure and urban resilience.

Local Development Ministry aide Hisham El-Helbawy said local governance is the “first line of defence” against pressures from migration, population growth and climate risks, praising Qena and Damietta for integrating these issues into development plans.

A UN-Habitat representative said field experience in both governorates showed that strong local institutions and community engagement are central to building resilient, inclusive cities.