US announces $129 million investment in Egypt’s development

Secretary Antony J. Blinken participates in the U.S.-Egypt Strategic Dialogue in Cairo, Egypt, September 18, 2024. (Official State Department photo by Chuck Kennedy)

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced a $129 million investment from the U.S. government, reaffirming the commitment to advancing U.S.-Egypt priorities. This announcement was made during the U.S.-Egypt Strategic Dialogue and shared by the U.S. Embassy in Cairo on September 19.

According to the statement, this investment, facilitated by USAID, is aimed at supporting Egypt’s private sector reforms, improving public education and health services, and strengthening government institutions with an emphasis on transparency.

The Strategic Dialogue focused on collaboration to achieve Egypt’s Vision 2030 in education, preserve cultural heritage, and promote sustainable tourism growth.

Key initiatives include the provision of advanced lab equipment for nine additional STEM schools, upgrades for 80 technical education schools, and the expansion of U.S.-funded University Career Centers to 19 more Egyptian universities. Furthermore, three U.S. universities—Illinois Institute of Technology, University of Minnesota, and Drake University—are exploring partnerships to establish branch campuses in Egypt, allowing local students to access American education.

In partnership with Egypt’s Ministry of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, USAID will continue to prioritize university scholarships, teacher training, STEM education, and collaborative research in areas like water, clean energy, and climate change. The agency will also focus on fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and trade, especially for women and youth, while ensuring sustainable tourism remains a key economic driver for Egypt.

The statement also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve family health and combat violence against women and girls, underscoring the U.S.’s broader support for Egypt, which has included over $30 billion in economic development assistance since 1978.

About Geraldine Boechat 2850 Articles
Senior Editor for Medafrica Times and former journalist for Swiss National Television. former NGO team leader in Burundi and Somalia