UNCCD executive secretary highlights Egypt’s pivotal role in combating desertification

CAIRO - 4 January 2026: The executive secretary of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) praised Egypt’s extensive efforts in combating desertification through land reclamation.

In a meeting with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi on Sunday, Fouad described Egypt’s role in combating desertification as pivotal, the Presidency said in a statement.

She commended Egypt’s implementation of a wide array of land reclamation projects despite the significant challenges posed by water scarcity.

Fouad praised Egypt’s full compliance with the UNCCD, including timely submission of national reports and setting voluntary targets for land rehabilitation.

El-Sisi, for his part, stressed that Egypt will provide all necessary support to ensure Fouad’s success in carrying out her responsibilities under the UNCCD.

He highlighted the convention’s role as the legally binding framework for combating desertification and mitigating the effects of drought through multilateral partnership and commitment.

The president emphasized Egypt’s strong confidence in Fouad’s extensive experience in addressing global environmental challenges, as well as in supporting international efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly amid the escalating environmental crises worldwide.

The meeting also addressed opportunities to strengthen cooperation between Egypt and the UNCCD Secretariat, expand joint initiatives, and enhance support mechanisms for member states, particularly across Africa and the Arab region.

These efforts are aimed at increasing the effectiveness of the convention and assisting countries in achieving sustainable development goals amid escalating environmental challenges, the presidency added.