WELCOME TO ORGANIC EGYPT NEWSLETTER!
Volume 48
Dear Reader,
This is volume number 48 of the Organic Egypt Foundation newsletter. It reviews our activities in May 2025 and illustrates all interventions conducted with our partners and stakeholders.
Enjoy the read!
TRAININGS AND WORKSHOPS FOR OUR STAKEHOLDERS
Training on Agroecology
Organic Egypt Foundation organized a three-day training on agroecology at SEKEM Farm, bringing together 13 participants from Heisa Island in Aswan. On the first day, the lecturer focused on the principles of agroecology, exploring how ecological interactions can enhance productivity and resilience in farming systems. They examined key practices that promote biodiversity and soil health. On the second day, the group was introduced to regenerative soil management techniques. Additionally, the participants visited the SEKEM compost and biofertilizer units to gain hands-on experience and understand the role of organic inputs in improving soil structure and productivity. On the final day, the training concluded with a deep dive into soil microbiology and biofertilization. Overall, The training provided a comprehensive overview of how regenerative practices can lead to healthier soils and increased crop yields, and participants were enthusiastic and eager to implement what they had learned on their own farms in Aswan.
Training on Organic Plant Breeding
Organic Egypt Foundation team took part in a three-day training on organic plant breeding, held at SEKEM Farm. The workshop brought together experts, practitioners, and trainees to deepen their understanding of sustainable plant breeding practices rooted in biodynamic agriculture. On the first day the lecturer introduced the principles of biodynamic agriculture and the importance of organic plant breeding for food security and environmental sustainability. On the second day, seed-saving techniques, adaptation of plant varieties to organic farming systems, and the role of biodiversity in enhancing crop resilience and quality. On the final day of the training, participants engaged in hands-on activities, such as seed selection and cross-pollination, field observations, and discussions on the importance of preserving local varieties and promoting holistic approaches to agriculture.
Health Awareness Event in Bahariya Oasis
Organic Egypt Foundation team participated in an awareness event held in Bahariya Oasis as part of the Farmer’s Health Project, in collaboration with the Integrative Health Center of the Heliopolis University. This initiative was designed to support rural families with practical knowledge on improving their daily health practices and well-being. The event brought together women, men, and their children to discuss a range of essential topics, including the basics of healthy nutrition and the effect of organic farming and food on health , the concept of “media fasting” for children, waste management, and managing common illnesses like fever at home. An impactful addition was the involvement of students from the faculties of Physical Therapy and Pharmacy of Heliopolis University. They guided participants through simple physical exercises suitable for daily routines, helping both men and women enhance mobility and reduce strain while performing household or field work.
INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS
First Profiling cycle and selection of suitable Professions
As part of the Women’s Empowerment in Rural Egypt Project, the profiling team completed the selection and distribution process of the women and girls who participated in the first cycle of the profiling training. The process involved a series of structured profiling activities, facilitated by the profiling team, which allowed participants to explore five core professions: cooking, sewing, cosmetics, poultry farming, and childcare. Following this selection phase, the project team began planning the next steps for the training implementation and curriculum development. Collectively, the project aims to create a well-rounded program that would not only equip the girls with practical skills but also empower them to pursue their chosen career paths.
NETWORKING ACTIVITIES OF ORGANIC EGYPT FOUNDATION
Participation in National Dialogue on Digital Pathways to Agroecology & Food
On May 20, 2025, representatives from Organic Egypt Foundation participated in a roundtable titled “Digital Systems and Solutions as a Pathway to Agroecology and Food,” held at the Agricultural Genetic Engineering Research Institute (AGERI). The meeting brought together key stakeholders to discuss the status, challenges, and future direction of digital transformation in Egyptian agriculture. The discussion shed light on the fragmented state of digital efforts in agroecology, pointing to the absence of a national roadmap and the limited coordination among relevant ministries. Overall, Organic Egypt’s participation was particularly fruitful, reinforcing the foundation’s ongoing commitment to advancing agroecological practices through context-specific, inclusive, and community-driven approaches.
Participation at the “Innovation for Humanity” Celebration of the Egyptian Food Bank
Organic Egypt Foundation team attended the second edition of the Egyptian Food Bank’s annual event, “Innovation for Humanity,” held at the iconic Grand Egyptian Museum. The event marked the Egyptian Food Bank’s 20th anniversary and served as a dynamic platform showcasing the intersection of innovation and humanitarian impact. In the presence of high-profile public figures, corporate leaders, development professionals, and local and international partners, the Egyptian Food Bank unveiled three forward-thinking models aimed at transforming the lives of the most vulnerable populations in Egypt. These models include FreeMart, The Circle of Humanity, and TruChain—a transparent and accountable supply chain system. The participation in this event reflects the commitment to building partnerships that support food justice, innovation, and community well-being across Egypt.
