A Legislative Milestone: Governor of Kafr El Sheikh Issues a Decree to Institutionalize Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM)

In a decisive step to bolster climate change adaptation efforts, the project titled "Enhancing Climate Change Adaptation in the North Coast and Nile Delta Regions in Egypt" (ECCADP) announced the issuance of Decree No. 21099 of 2025 by H.E. Major General Dr. Alaa Abdel Moaty, Governor of Kafr El Sheikh. Issued on November 22, 2025, the decree defines the mandates of the governorate’s Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) Committee. This decree represents a key output of the ICZM plan developed by the project in collaboration with the governorate, aiming to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of both coastal protection and development activities.

This significant decree solidifies a joint institutional framework, requiring that all development projects along the governorate's coast be presented to the ICZM Committee for integrated review prior to the issuance of any permits or licenses. This procedure reinforces a participatory and unified management approach, ensuring that all future developmental activities within the shoreline zone are fully aligned with the objectives of protecting against sea-level rise (SLR) and climate change impacts.

The Governor’s decree is based on a comprehensive set of legislations related to local administration, environment, and development, including the Water Resources and Irrigation Law and Cabinet decrees concerning the National Climate Change Committee. The project management confirms that this new legislative framework paves the way for the consistent and sustainable implementation of all recommendations and protection projects in the governorate's coastal zone, ultimately serving the citizens and safeguarding vital infrastructure.