Egypt’s rapid urbanization has concentrated much of its population and development along the Nile River, with urban spaces occupying just 6% of the country's total land area. The remaining 94% of Egypt is desert, placing immense pressure on the country's already overstressed infrastructure. These challenges are further exacerbated by conflicts in neighbouring countries, leading to waves of refugees and displaced populations seeking safety in Egypt. As a result, the need for housing, public services, and infrastructure continues to grow, intensifying urban strain.
To address these challenges, UN-Habitat, in partnership with the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), launched the Urban Planning & Infrastructure in Migration Contexts (UPIMC) programme. The program aims to enhance access to reliable public services and socio-economic opportunities for migrants and displaced populations.
This publication is the development of the Kafr El Battikh city spatial profile and analytics. Providing comprehensive analysis at the national and regional levels to improve the understanding of current conditions. A more detailed local analysis identified gaps in public infrastructure in the city. This analysis was based on data collected and a highly participatory planning approach, ensuring that community voices were included. The next phase will involve vision, area planning and action plan to explore detailed solutions.
By using a multi scalar approach, the analysis ensured that issues at different levels were interconnected. This methodology provided a comprehensive understanding of the city's challenges and opportunities, helping municipalities and key stakeholders integrate migration-related concerns into urban planning and infrastructure investment strategies.