WELCOME TO ORGANIC EGYPT NEWSLETTER!
Volume 39
Dear Reader,
This is volume number 39 of Organic Egypt project newsletter. It reviews our activities in August 2024 and illustrates all interventions conducted with our partners, the Integral Development Action of Minia (IDAM) and the Egyptian Biodynamic Association (EBDA).
We hope you enjoy the read!
TRAININGS AND WORKSHOPS FOR PARTNER ASSOCIATION
Training on Integrated Nutrient Management
Organic Egypt conducted a three-day training for the partner association EBDA on integrated nutrient management. On the first day of the training, the lecturer started by demonstrating the difference between organic and conventional fertilization methods through interactive presentations and hands-on activities. On the second day, they showcased the carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycles in organic farming systems, emphasizing the importance of maintaining soil health and fertility. The final day of training
focused on practical applications, and they visited the compost production site and the microbiology lab to observe different processes involved in nutrient recycling and soil enrichment. Overall, the training provided EBDA engineers with valuable knowledge and skills to consult their members in sustainable nutrient management practices.
Training on Principles of Rural Development and Agricultural Extension
Organic Egypt organized a three-day training for the partner association IDAM on rural development and agricultural extension. On the first day, participants had an introduction to rural and sustainable development, its goals, and the extent of its relationship to Egypt’s Vision 2030. Additionally, they discussed the structure and characteristics of rural society. On the second day, the lecturer talked about the importance and philosophy of agricultural guidance in Egyptian agriculture. The training also covered the role of agriculture extension services in promoting sustainable farming practices and enhancing agricultural productivity. On the final day, the participants made a role play on how to transform knowledge to farmers and how to use tools to present to the farmers the knowledge about the new practices like posters and drawings. Overall, the training provided a comprehensive overview of sustainable agriculture practices and how to best transfer knowledge.
NEW INNOVATIVE SERVICES OF OUR PARTNER ASSOCIATIONS
Biofertilizer laboratory for IDAM association
Organic Egypt facilitated a successful collaboration between Microfert Company and their partner association IDAM, enabling mutually beneficial cooperation to produce biofertilizer products at IDAM’s laboratory. Microfert and IDAM signed an Agreement to produce Biofertilizers for IDAM smallholder farmers in Minia. IDAM is responsible for the product distribution to the farmers and Microfert is responsible for producing the needed Biofertilizers. The aim of this agreement is to promote and improve plant health and soil fertility through the use of organic and sustainable agricultural products.
TRAINING AND LEARNING MATERIAL CREATED WITH OUR PARTNER
Recipe Videos for consumer awareness
Organic Egypt, in cooperation with RDNA Food Store, is producing recipe videos to raise awareness about natural, local, and organic food. This August, RDNA Food Store launched two new recipes that nourish summer vibes with easy and colorful ingredients, showcasing the delicious possibilities of incorporating different fruits. The first recipe was a refreshing “KOMBUCHA,” which helps to stay hydrated in the summer heat while providing gut-healthy probiotics. The second recipe was “Watermelon Lotus Flower Platter,” which is a perfect fruit combination made as a watermelon chopstick to create a beautiful and easy dish, sprinkled with lime, and decorated with basil and peppermint leaves. Both recipes are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients to keep you feeling energized and refreshed during the hot summer days.
EDUCATIONAL AND AWARENESS RAISING CAMPAIGNS
Organic Ambassador program in Minia
With the support of the Organic Egypt project, our partner association IDAM developed the “Organic Ambassador Programme,” a pioneering initiative aimed at uniting rural and urban youth in Minia. This month, IDAM organized a three-day Environmental Camp, where participants learnt about different topics such as environmental conservation, organic farming, climate change impacts, and sustainable practices. On the second and third day of the camp, participants engaged in group discussions and discussed practical steps for environmental initiatives in their communities. Overall, the camp was insightful, and participants were encouraged to apply what they learnt in their communities and become advocates for a sustainable living.
NETWORKING ACTIVITIES OF ORGANIC EGYPT PROJECT AND PARTNER
Cotton Harvest Festival
Organic Egypt team participated with its partner association EBDA in celebrating the cotton harvest festival with its member farms in Fayoum governorate. Over 100 people with different backgrounds came together like EBDA’s engineers, processing companies, students, women, and children, to share the harvesting experience and learn about sustainable farming practices. Additionally, the festival involved traditional music and raising awareness about the importance of cultivating organic crops! The farmers had the chance to share their experience about the result of increasing productivity over the years after adopting the biodynamic farming method. Overall, the festival was enjoyable and very encouraging for future generations to continue supporting sustainable agriculture practices.
Agribusiness International Exhibition For Agricultural Investment & Solar Energy
Organic Egypt representatives participated in the three-day agribusiness exhibition for agricultural investment alongside its partner association, EBDA. The event was a great opportunity for networking with potential investors, government officials, students from different universities, farmers, and other key stakeholders in the agricultural industry. The exhibition adopts the vision of promoting sustainable practices through agricultural investments, which aligns with the concept of Organic Egypt project. The team had the chance to build strong collaborations and professional relationships with different stakeholders in the fields of organic farming and the food industries, resulting in finding a great interest in future partnerships and alliances to further promote sustainable agriculture in Egypt. Additionally, the event provided a platform for knowledge sharing and innovation, allowing participants to exchange ideas.
