Egypt’s Ministry of Local Development announced on Saturday that Minister Manal Awad, who is also serving as acting environment minister, has launched the third edition of the “Climate Leaders” programme, which aims to support youth-driven environmental projects and strengthen women’s participation in climate action.
According to the ministry, the launch event was attended by senior representatives from the National Council for Women, the Shabab El-Qiyada Foundation, participants from previous programme cycles, and a group of young climate innovators.
Awad said the new edition comes amid renewed global momentum following the conclusion of the COP30 climate summit in Brazil. She praised the projects presented during the event and urged young participants to focus on developing practical and scalable solutions capable of transforming environmental challenges into development opportunities.
The minister highlighted the Environment Ministry’s continued support for initiatives that empower youth and women, stressing the importance of taking part in governorate-level “smart green projects” competitions. These competitions, she noted, offer opportunities for project funding through both local and international partners.
Awad added that Egypt “needs the energy and innovative ideas of its youth,” and encouraged participants to put forward any concepts that could help address environmental challenges.
Amal Ammar, Chair of the National Council for Women, emphasized the strong cooperation with the youth foundation in promoting environmental awareness among young Egyptians, adding that women’s empowerment remains a central pillar of sustainable development efforts.
The event also included a panel discussion titled “Climate Leaders: From Idea to Impact,” where experts and young project leaders shared their experiences. During the ceremony, the National Council for Women presented an appreciation shield to Awad in recognition of her efforts in advancing environmental and climate initiatives.
The ministry added that the “Climate Leaders” programme is implemented under the auspices of the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Social Solidarity, in cooperation with the National Council for Women. The programme is designed to support youth initiatives and student-led activities that address environmental and climate-related challenges.
