Exclusive – Horrya Press:
In the face of severe financial strain and mounting debt, Egypt’s ambitious New Administrative Capital stands out as a bold and controversial project. As President Al Sisi navigates a precarious economic landscape, the new capital represents not just a physical relocation of governmental functions but a strategic move to safeguard his presidency. This article explores why the New Administrative Capital is central to Egypt’s future, how it aims to transform the nation’s administrative and economic framework, and the implications for both Egypt and its international allies.
In 2011, during the Egyptian revolution, the people used a strategic move to force then-President Hosni Mubarak out of office. The Egyptian government had been centrally located in Cairo for decades, with the growing population leading to severe congestion around key government buildings, such as ministries and Al Mogammaa, where citizens handled official paperwork. The situation was compounded by the concentration of embassies in the same area, allowing protesters to effectively block access to these crucial sites and disrupt the nation’s daily operations.
Fast forward to the present, and the New Administrative Capital emerges as a critical element in President Al Sisi’s strategy. Situated about 45 kilometers east of Cairo, the new capital is far enough from the old center that it would take approximately 9 hours of continuous walking to reach it from the capital. This distance significantly reduces the likelihood of similar revolutionary tactics being employed against him, as was done with Mubarak.
Transitioning from historical challenges to modern solutions, the New Administrative Capital is home to some of the most ambitious projects in Egypt’s modern history. The presidential palace, one of the largest in the world, spans approximately 50,000 acres. It will serve as the central hub for managing state affairs, encompassing various administrative buildings and official facilities.
In addition, the capital will feature a sprawling government complex designed to centralize numerous ministries and governmental institutions. This complex aims to enhance efficiency and alleviate the congestion that has plagued Cairo for decades. Equipped with modern facilities, it is intended to streamline Egypt’s administrative functions.
One of the most striking features of the New Administrative Capital is the Oblisco Capital Tower, planned to reach a height of 1 kilometer. Once completed, it will be among the tallest structures globally. Inspired by ancient Egyptian obelisks, this tower will combine residential, commercial, and hotel spaces, symbolizing Egypt’s ambition to lead in architectural innovation and global development.
Another significant project is the Ministry of Defense’s new headquarters, known as “The Octagon.” This building is set to become one of the largest defense ministry complexes worldwide, designed in an octagonal shape and equipped with state-of-the-art military and security facilities. It underscores Egypt’s strategic focus on bolstering its defense capabilities and future ambitions.
As we shift our focus to the international dimension, President Al Sisi has been working diligently to avoid the fate of Mubarak. His administration has received substantial support from the EU, the US, and Gulf Arab governments, with aid nearly matching Egypt’s external debt. This support has ensured that Egypt remains a reliable ally in managing regional issues, such as the Rafah Port between Gaza and Sinai, highlighting Al Sisi’s role in handling sensitive matters effectively. However, the crucial question remains: Is Egypt still considered a valuable partner by these governments?
As uncertainty looms, will the grand plans for the Oblisco Capitale come to fruition, or will they be sidelined to prioritize the completion of the new Ministry of Defense? The streets of Egypt are rife with unanswered questions, and President Al Sisi has yet to provide clear responses.
Will the sale of Ras El Hikma, Tiran, and Sanafir, along with increasing the national debt to $160.6 billion, be sufficient to cover these ambitious projects? Will the UAE, Saudi Arabia, the EU, and the US continue to support Al Sisi and help prevent further economic decline?
As Egypt stands at a critical juncture, the New Administrative Capital embodies both its aspirations and its uncertainties. This grand vision reflects a determination to overcome historical challenges and redefine the country’s administrative landscape. However, the success of this ambitious project—and President Al Sisi’s future—hinges on Egypt’s ability to manage its financial obligations and maintain crucial international support. The coming years will be pivotal in determining whether the New Administrative Capital will become a symbol of renewal or a testament to the complexities of Egypt’s ongoing quest for stability and growth. The world watches closely as Egypt navigates this critical juncture in its history.
Sources:
• CNN
