@lina_hannegan Extremely sad article that shows the real despair amongst the struggling people of Egypt. Issues like this are certainly bigger than politics, hopefully the government responds with considerable support and programs for those struggling with mental health.
@466Zane I agree that these poverty reports are pretty concerning. Even with a national poverty line that economists argue is too low, the number of people in poverty has increased 5% to 33% in 2019. Like you said, hopefully these negative effects are only short term growing pains.
@SchmidtTanner Great article, good to see that not only are macroeconomic factors improving but the government is implementing programs for the low and intermediate income population. The 750,000 units already delivered to the people is surely a solid start towards creating sustainable cities.
@KylaRob55271476 These are huge plans from Ali, especially in a country as large as Egypt (100+ million people). Last time the government responded swiftly and harshly, but some gains were made reinstated a couple million to the food-subsidy program. Interesting to see how this plays out.
https://t.co/gkbernCQBe With a massive shadow economy, Egypt needs to build a model that transitions current tuk-tuk drivers into the formal economy. A successful transition can be a launching board for other private sector immersions that have yet to start in Egypt. #Econ466SDSU
@SchmidtTanner I agree that the projects to create new housing and expand education are positive signs. However, with the troubling poverty numbers coming out of the nation I think their needs to be more project geared towards development of the poor and struggling.
@KylaRob55271476 Very concerning to see the reach and control of this government. Interesting that they want to expand and improve their private sector yet they are stifling the exact innovators and skilled workers that are needed.
@lina_hannegan Good to see these countries resume talks, but I agree that with the dam nearing completion substantial progress made. Interesting if Egypt can leverage its need to provide for its 100+ million people into gaining more control over the Nile than Ethiopia initially would like.
https://t.co/0J9GkwCGkF Egypt's planned move towards privatized construction has 2 big implications. Creating a more efficient industry without the domination of the military's wasteful practices. Producing new private sector jobs due to immense demand for housing. #Econ466SDSU
@466Zane Great seeing positive articles like this. I think this story is important because it shows the growth of much-needed innovation in the Egyptian economy. With many jobs limited to one-dimensional public sector work, innovators like these are vital to developing Egypt sustainably.
@KylaRob55271476 Great point that Egypt will need to protect its borders and waters to become a energy hub. I am curious if their recent 2bn investment in Russian jets is part of their plan to bolster military capability. Backing Cyprus now may help Egypt in future natural gas site conflicts.
@SchmidtTanner Interesting to explore the motivations behind this move. Letting the textile industry move to the private sector, the industry could potentially become more efficient and add much-needed non-public jobs. However, this expansion allows the government to retain economic control.
@lina_hannegan With vast economic potential in the land of MENA, it makes sense that these countries are determined to maintain their economic interests. Curious if Egypt's participation is more out of benevolence for Cyprus or for future economic reward. Let's hope this situation cools off.
https://t.co/xY2uURIFJs With the U.S as a large part of the increasing FDI into the Egyptian econ., sanctions could create tension and slow these cash inflows. Before responding, Egypt needs to take into account that they need cash for private sector investment. #ECON466SDSU
@SchmidtTanner With great promise and potential in Africa, I agree that economic integration and investment between Egypt and these regions is significant for long term development. Despite disputes like the Ethiopian damn on the Nile, hopefully positive relations will prevail and encourage.
@KylaRob55271476 Great article Kyla, I think it is significant anytime that Egypt makes moves to diversify their economy out of just oil and gas. With a sovereign fund pouring into more privatized industries like power, we will hopefully see quality job creation in these stagnated sectors.
@466Zane Zane I agree it is great to see Egypt accomplish a significant budget surplus, especially considering the financial struggles they have endured. Interesting to see that a big conduit to the surplus was cutting the social welfare system that ironically mainly benefitted the rich.
@lina_hannegan Lina, I am glad there is an organization stepping up to help the people of Egypt. Regardless of political or economic views, there should be support and regulation of the human conditions for these prisoners. I wonder if economic sanctions could be imposed if conditions worsen.
https://t.co/wFFQk5wCCz A depleted private sector could receive much-needed stimulation from an expected cut in interest rates. Inflation is decreasing but the very high real interest rate discourages Egyptians from borrowing money to start legitimate businesses. #ECON466SDSU
@SchmidtTanner It would be good to see Egypt expanding their own natural gas exporting industry, but if they are able to import cheaply through this deal then it makes sense. Egypt has been seemingly very involved in the energy sector recently, let's hope this will stimulate the private sector.