In a recent cabinet reshuffle, four women have been appointed to ministerial positions in Egypt. Maya Morsi is the new Minister of Social Solidarity, Manal Awad Mikhail has taken the role of Minister of Local Development, Rania al-Mashat has become Minister of Planning & Economic Development and International Cooperation, and Yasmine Ahmed Fouad continues as Minister of Environment.
The reshuffle also includes 26 male ministers, 23 deputy ministers, and two deputy prime ministers under Mostafa Madbouly.
President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi had previously outlined criteria for the new government formation, emphasizing the selection of individuals with exceptional competencies and experience to address national security, improve the livelihood of Egyptian citizens, particularly in health and education, and enhance political participation.
Maya Morsi, previously President of the National Council for Women since February 2016, has been appointed as Minister of Social Solidarity, succeeding Nevine al-Qabbag. She is noted for her extensive work in women’s empowerment and policy development, holding a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Human Security for Arab Women and two Master’s degrees from Seattle University.
Manal Awad Mikhail, Minister of Local Development
Manal Awad Mikhail, the first woman to hold the position of Minister of Local Development, was previously the Governor of Damietta and Deputy Governor of Giza. She holds a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine from Benha University, a Master’s degree, and a doctorate in medical sciences from Alexandria University. Mikhail has received numerous awards, including the UNESCO Learning Cities Prize in 2017.
Rania al-Mashat, Minister of International Cooperation and Planning
Rania al-Mashat brings over 20 years of experience in financial systems, sustainable development, and international cooperation. She has been serving as Minister of International Cooperation since December 2019 and previously held the position of Minister of Tourism. Mashat has represented Egypt in various international financial institutions and has been recognized with several prestigious awards.
Yasmine Fouad, Minister of Environment
Yasmine Fouad, reappointed as Minister of Environment, has been in this role since June 2018. With over 25 years of experience, she has held various positions in government, United Nations organizations, and NGOs. Fouad has played a significant role in environmental legislation, including the Waste Management Law No. 202 of 2020, and has led efforts in biodiversity and climate change initiatives.
