IOM, Egypt, Japan Join Forces to Support Infrastructure of Southern Egyptian Border Crossing Points
Ahmed Emam
On Wednesday, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Egypt handed over an electricity generator and 12 air conditioners (ACs) to the General Authority for Land and Dry Ports of the Egyptian Ministry of Transport to support operations at Egypt's Southern Border Crossing Points (BCPs) with Sudan.
This initiative is part of the ongoing strategic collaboration between IOM and the Government of Egypt, to facilitate dignified cross-border movements of individuals while ensuring a decent working environment for Egyptian officials, with thanks to the generous funding of the Government of Japan.
Since 2023, Egypt has become a key destination for migrants seeking refuge and stability within the MENA region, particularly those fleeing from conflict in Sudan. As movement through Egypt's southern border crossings with Sudan continues, strengthening border infrastructure remains essential; equipment is critical to ensuring support for vulnerable populations on the move.
'We are delighted to begin this vital partnership with the Ministry of Transport and eager to deepen and further expand it. This initiative complements other joint efforts between IOM and the Government of Egypt, whose commendable efforts in hosting migrants for decades contributes to safe and orderly migration.' said Mr. Carlos Oliver Cruz, Chief of Mission of IOM Egypt.
'I would also like to express IOM's gratitude to the Government of Japan, whose generous support has allowed us to implement several crucial projects spanning different areas of migration governance, in close coordination with our Egyptian counterparts.'
The electricity generator will serve as a reliable power source to sustain efficient cross-border operations the Egyptian Southern Border Crossing Points (BCP) with Sudan, while the ACs will help maintain a safe, hygienic, and decent environment for vulnerable migrants crossing the border as well as appropriate working conditions for the Egyptian officials at Egypt's Southern BCPs.
Provision of these items aligns with objectives of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration (GCM), of which Egypt is a Champion Country. It particularly contributes to objective 11 "Manage borders in an integrated, secure and coordinated manner." It adds to a growing list of commendable actions taken by the Government of Egypt to support migrants and address migration-related challenges in line with the commitment of Egypt to the international law and relevant standards.
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