Egypt has allocated 6 billion Egyptian pounds — approximately $124 million — to begin construction on the first phase of the East Oweinat–Kufra Road Project, a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening regional connectivity between Egypt, Libya, and Chad.
According to official sources, the first phase will cover 100 kilometers within Egyptian territory, out of a planned 400 kilometers on the Egyptian side. This phase marks the starting point of a larger regional development corridor.
The total planned length of the road is approximately 1,720 kilometers, with an estimated cost of 24 billion pounds (around $492 million). The project is divided into three main segments:
400 km inside Egypt
390 km inside Libya
930 km inside Chad
The East Oweinat–Kufra Road is expected to play a key role in enhancing trade, transport, and economic cooperation across North and Central Africa, positioning Egypt as a major transit hub for regional commerce.
Libya has been in chaos since a NATO-backed uprising toppled longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. The county has for years been split between rival administrations.
Libya’s economy, heavily reliant on oil, has suffered due to the ongoing conflict. The instability has led to fluctuations in oil production and prices, impacting the global oil market and Libya’s economy.
The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis in Libya, with thousands of people killed, and many more displaced. Migrants and refugees using Libya as a transit point to Europe have also faced dire conditions.
The planned elections for December 2021 were delayed due to disagreements over election laws and the eligibility of certain candidates. This delay has raised concerns about the feasibility of a peaceful political transition.
Despite the ceasefire, security remains a significant concern with sporadic fighting and the presence of mercenaries and foreign fighters. The unification of the military and the removal of foreign forces are crucial challenges.
