Cairo: The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Agency (MSMEDA) has financed 2,259 handicraft projects with a total value of around EGP 86 million between 2014 and 2025 in Egypt's border governorates. This initiative is part of the State's efforts to develop traditional and handicraft industries, create job opportunities, and promote development in border areas, as affirmed by Cabinet spokesperson Mohamed el-Homosani.

According to State Information Service Egypt, during a phone interview with Extra News Channel, Homosani highlighted that the agency's efforts have been concentrated on identifying investment opportunities and financing small and micro projects. This has been done in collaboration with the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade, particularly in linking the agency with the ministry regarding the issuance of licenses.

The spokesperson noted that a significant number of licenses have been granted in the border governorates, with 14,000 temporary licenses and 12,000 final licenses issued. This is part of the agency's broader strategy to streamline processes and support local enterprises.

Homosani also mentioned that the agency is working alongside the Ministry of Investment to establish an electronic linkage system for issuing licenses. This initiative is being coordinated with the Ministry of Local Development through the single-window system to enhance efficiency and accessibility for entrepreneurs.

Furthermore, the agency has financed more than 128,000 small and micro projects in the border governorates, with a total investment of EGP 4.9 billion over the period from 2014 to 2025. These projects have generated over 228,000 job opportunities, significantly contributing to the economic development of these regions.