CAIRO: The Egyptian government is currently reviewing the final version of the National Strategy for Population Growth Control (2021-2023), which will then be submitted to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi for approval.
During a meeting of the review committee on Tuesday, Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said population growth is one of the most important challenges the country faces, since it negatively affects development and citizens’ quality of life.
The government aims to reduce the fertility rate to 2.4 births per woman by 2030. The rate is currently 3.25 births per woman, according to data from the United Nations.
The strategy includes improving job opportunities for women aged 18 to 45, so that they are more likely to gain financial independence; raising awareness of the economic and social issues created by population growth; and making family planning methods available for free.