In water scarce Egypt, protecting biodiversity requires effort and investment. Therefore, sustainable models require a clear business incentive. Habiba Farms in Nuweiba, South Sinai, developed an agro-eco-tourism concept over the past decades and engages with the local community in all their activities. As a result, the region now hosts a cluster of organic farms and eco-tourism-initiatives. To take these dynamics further, the agriculture team of the Netherlands embassy in Egypt facilitated a ‘camp’ (a multi-day workshop) for Habiba’s next step in scaling: connect the different initiatives in a ‘Green Corridor-concept’ so as to increase the living-space for the local wildlife and therefore impact on biodiversity.
Habiba Farm, in Nuweiba South Sinai
Habiba Farms, a pioneering living lab, served as an ideal venue for the camp. Over the past three decades, Habiba has developed a holistic model integrating sustainable food production, ecological restoration, community empowerment, education, and inclusive economic development. Their work exemplifies how biodiversity can be integrated into a viable business case, creating economic opportunities while simultaneously enhancing the environment.
Green Corridor
Representatives from local SMEs, Egyptian investors and Dutch experts got together to develop this Green Corridor-concept. The outcome is a proposed 3.5-kilometer corridor in Arab Hemdan area, connecting farms and green zones, serving as both an agricultural support path and a community-friendly zone. A unique feature of this initiative is the proposed integration of sustainable water management at the corridor's central mosque. By collecting and reusing water used for wudu (ablution), a clean water source, the corridor's vegetation and trees can be sustainably irrigated after simple sand filtration.
A key focus was on showcasing how biodiversity can be supported, while combatting water scarcity. For example, the group discussed the use of wild plants to reduce soil salinity, a significant problem in arid regions. Furthermore, discussions highlighted the vital role biodiversity plays in improving soil fertility, a critical factor for sustainable agriculture, which is a key element in the Dutch Ministry of Agriculture’s vision for sustainable agriculture.
Camp & workshop on supporting biodiversity
Experts from Wageningen University and local universities, provided valuable insights into best practices and potential investment opportunities. The camp facilitated a cross-pollination of ideas and approaches between the two countries. By supporting collaboration between local communities, researchers, and investors, the event was a good example for the development of scalable business models that leverage the power of biodiversity. Video on Green Corridor initiative
More information
For further information on developments in the Egyptian market and potential collaboration opportunities, please contact KAI-LVVN@minbuza.nl.