The statement comes after online reactions to a coordination meeting with UNHCR raised concerns about the use of public donations, prompting the foundation to clarify its funding structure and reassure donors.

The foundation said Egyptian donations are directed solely toward supporting the most vulnerable families nationwide, as part of efforts to expand social protection and promote social justice across all governorates, with no spending outside this scope.

It added that programmes supporting refugees and migrants in Egypt are financed entirely through earmarked international grants, with no impact on domestic donations.

The foundation affirmed that it maintains full separation between funding streams in line with governance standards and evaluates any international cooperation based on its benefit to Egyptian citizens.

The statement said these programmes do not affect Egyptians’ rights or employment opportunities, but instead contribute to expanding economic activity and creating new opportunities.

It added that such efforts are temporary and aimed at easing pressure on the state until refugees return to their home countries, without undermining national development priorities.

The foundation rejected what it described as “offensive rhetoric” circulating online, saying it would not engage with “unprofessional and unfounded” criticism that lacks accuracy.

It also criticized some media outlets for presenting one-sided coverage without seeking clarification from the foundation.

It concluded by reaffirming its commitment to supporting Egyptian citizens and backing state efforts to address current challenges, while urging the public to rely on official sources for accurate information.

Public reaction on Egyptian social media in recent days has centred on concerns that domestic donations could be redirected to support refugees, reflecting broader sensitivities around resource allocation amid ongoing economic pressures.

The debate also tapped into a wider public discourse in Egypt over the economic impact of hosting large numbers of refugees and migrants, with recurring concerns about pressure on services, jobs, and subsidies.

Similar discussions have intensified periodically since the outbreak of regional conflicts, especially with the ongoing wars in Gaza and Sudan.

Launched in 2019 with investments estimated at around EGP 350 billion, the initiative delivered a major expansion in basic services across targeted Egyptian villages. Access to drinking water reached full coverage, while sanitation services increased from around 20 percent to nearly 90 percent.

The first phase included establishing 261 water plants and 22 wastewater treatment plants, as well as completing around 455,000 household water connections. It also saw the delivery of 685 health units and 365 ambulance stations, the construction of around 15,000 classrooms, and the upgrading of 925 youth centres.

Moreover, about 596,000 citizens were enrolled in literacy programmes as part of broader efforts to improve human development indicators in rural areas.