Context: Supporting farmers in adopting biodynamic and regenerative agricultural practices is essential for improving resilience to climate change, improving livelihoods, and fostering a sustainable agricultural community in Egypt.
Partners: Egyptian Biodynamic Association (EBDA), Heliopolis University for Sustainable Development, SEKEM Development Foundation, EcoTec Holding SAE, various local and international partners including Demeter and Organic Egypt.
Duration: Started in 1977 and ongoing, with significant expansions in recent years.
Location: Egypt

Impact Achieved:

• Transitioned over 15,000 farmers to biodynamic farming methods.

• Converted more than 47,000 acres of land to biodynamic agriculture.

• Supported the development of sustainable agricultural practices, leading to enhanced resilience of local communities to climate change.

• Launched the Economy of Love (EoL) standard to promote regenerative agriculture, carbon sequestration, and sustainable livelihoods.

• Contributed to climate mitigation efforts and the enhancement of biodiversity, fostering healthier ecosystems and promoting sustainable land use practices.

• Reduced hidden costs associated with the global agrifood system by addressing health, environmental, and social factors, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions, improved dietary habits, sustainable land use practices, and enhanced nutrition.

Description:
The SEKEM Initiative, established almost 50 years ago, focuses on regenerative development through biodynamic and organic agriculture, along with socio-economic and cultural initiatives. Dr. Ibrahim Abouleish, the founder, believed in regenerative desert reclamation within a strong community as a solution to Egypt's challenges. What began as an agricultural project has since evolved into a multifaceted group of companies, NGOs, educational institutions, and a Medical Center, all working together to address critical issues including food security, environmental degradation, and climate change. SEKEM’s approach integrates economic, social, human and environmental sustainability, aiming to build resilient food systems and support local communities such as smallholder farmers in adapting to climate risks. Through their certification standard, SEKEM’s Economy of Love (EoL) standard promotes regenerative agriculture, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity, while ensuring transparency, fair wages, and sustainable practices. In recognition of its impactful work, SEKEM and the Egyptian Biodynamic Association (EBDA) were announced as joint recipients of the 2024 Gulbenkian Prize for Humanity for advocating for biodynamic agriculture and supporting Egyptian farmers' transition to regenerative practices.

A key aspect of SEKEM's mission is empowering farmers during their transition into more resilient agricultural practices, providing comprehensive training, technical assistance, and capacity-building initiatives. This transition enhances productivity, enriches soil health, and promotes community development. To date, the initiative has supported over 15,000 farmers and converted more than 47,000 acres of land. SEKEM's efforts also extend to renewable energy, waste recycling, and afforestation, as it continues to scale its impact with the aim of reaching 40,000 farmers by 2025. Through these diverse activities, SEKEM fosters a sustainable and resilient agricultural model that improves the livelihoods of local farmers while benefiting the broader environment.

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Main image: Samuel Leon Knaus

The Food Systems Call to Action is a global initiative that urges non-state actors and governments to take immediate steps to transform food systems by 2030. It highlights the urgent need for resilient, sustainable, and equitable approaches that support food security, protect nature, and address climate change. Through targeted actions and principles, the Call to Action emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity—ensuring that farmers, frontline workers, Indigenous communities, and other key players are at the forefront of decision-making and implementation.