Informal settlements in Egypt arose as a result of internal migration from rural to urban areas and the lack of adequate urban planning to accommodate population growth. These areas represent one of the most significant challenges in urban geography and economic development.
In Greater Cairo, informal settlements are widespread on the city's outskirts, such as Ezbet El Haggana, El Duweiqa, and Manshiyat Nasser. These areas are characterized by high population density, narrow streets, inadequate infrastructure, and poor education and healthcare services.
Informal settlements negatively impact the environment by increasing pollution, filling in agricultural land, and encroaching on waterways. They also contribute to increased poverty and social exclusion due to isolation from public services.
In recent years, the government has focused on implementing comprehensive development projects such as Asmarat and Bashayer Al-Khair, which aim to relocate slum dwellers to safe urban housing. This is an important step, but it requires community support and the participation of residents in decision-making to ensure the sustainability of the solutions.
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