(Cairo, Egypt, September 2, 2024) – Today, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Egypt, in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, and the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR) signed the Egyptian Red Sea Initiative, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This significant partnership aims to conserve and protect the Red Sea’s coral reefs, which are among the most resilient and biodiverse in the world.

The Red Sea is home to some of the most unique and vibrant coral reefs in the world, stretching over 1,200 kilometers along the Egyptian coast. These reefs are not only a vital part of the marine ecosystem, but also serve as the cornerstone of Egypt’s economy, supporting industries such as tourism and fishing. However, these ecosystems are increasingly threatened by climate change, overfishing, and unsustainable tourism practices. The health of coral reefs in the Red Sea is critical not only for the conservation of biodiversity, but also for the livelihoods of the communities that rely on these ecosystems.

The Egyptian Red Sea Initiative is an important milestone in Egypt's ongoing efforts to protect its natural heritage. This initiative brings together key stakeholders to establish the first conservation trust fund for Red Sea coral reefs and support protection and preservation of coral reefs through innovative climate finance models that benefit local communities in the Red Sea Governorate. The initiative aims to enhance the protection of approximately 99,899 hectares of coral reefs in the Egyptian Red Sea, including 13,637 hectares in Wadi El Gemal National Park and 50,612 hectares in the Northern Red Sea Islands Protectorate.

“The Egyptian Red Sea Initiative will bring new resources and partners for the protection and sustainable management of coral reefs," said Alessandro Fracassetti, UNDP Resident Representative in Egypt. "This initiative is not only in line with Egypt's national priorities, but also represents a global best practice in conservation and shows that it is possible to achieve environmental protection and economic development at the same time. Together, with our valued partners, we hope to see this initiative scale up in the near future, ensuring the continued protection of Egypt’s coral reefs and the well-being of the communities that depend on them."

USAID quote: “This initiative builds on decades of partnership between the Egyptian and American people to protect and preserve Egypt’s natural resources and help local communities build resilience to the shocks of climate change,” said Sean Jones, USAID Mission Director. “This investment will benefit and empower local communities that protect their environment, fostering stewardship over their natural resources. By harnessing the power of collaboration between government, civil society, and private businesses, we are investing in a model of conservation that is not only effective but also inclusive and equitable.”

The Egyptian Red Sea Initiative will mark a new chapter in the conservation of Egypt's coral reefs, ensuring the protection of these invaluable ecosystems for generations to come.

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For media inquiries and further information, please contact:

UNDP: Fatma Elzahraa Yassin | Communications Lead | fatma.yassin@undp.org