The Small Grants Programme: Driving Sustainable Agriculture in Egypt
In its seventh operational phase in Egypt, the Small Grants Programme (GEF/SGP) plays an active and influential role in supporting the transition toward sustainable agriculture. Through funding a series of pioneering projects targeting vulnerable farming communities, the programme promotes sound natural resource management, along with environmental and economic empowerment for small-scale farmers.
Promoting Sustainable Farming Practices in Luxor’s Armant Villages
In the villages of Armant in Luxor Governorate, the Pioneers of the Future Association for Economic Development organized awareness seminars and field meetings under the project “Together for Building Sustainable Agricultural Communities.”
These sessions showcased sugarcane cultivation using seedlings and the use of solar-powered irrigation systems. Agricultural consultants provided hands-on demonstrations explaining how these practices help save water, reduce costs, and increase productivity, raising farmers’ awareness and spreading a culture of clean and sustainable agriculture.
Transforming Agricultural Waste in Qena
In Qena Governorate, the project “Sustainable Management of Our Natural Resources”, implemented by the El Shorouk Association for Rural Women Development in Nagada, has successfully changed farmers’ perception of sugarcane waste. Instead of open burning, waste is now converted into organic fertilizers and animal feed, reducing harmful emissions and opening the door to new green market opportunities.
Turning Horse Manure into Fertilizer in Luxor
Luxor also witnessed a pioneering experience led by the Noor El-Islam Charity Association, which launched a project to train local residents on recycling horse manure into organic compost.
This initiative went beyond awareness-raising — it culminated in the production of the first batch of organic fertilizers through this technique. The achievement was celebrated at a major conference attended by representatives of relevant ministries and development experts, with widespread media praise.
The project stands as a real-life model for turning waste into economic resources that support sustainable agriculture.
Building Climate-Resilient Agriculture in Beheira
In Beheira Governorate, the project “Adapting to Climate Change and Protecting Agricultural Lands,” implemented by the Egyptian Association for Local Community Development, is establishing farmer field schools in Kafr El-Dawar and Abu Hummus.
These schools raise farmers’ awareness of climate-smart agricultural practices, such as recycling agricultural residues and protecting strategic crops, while also promoting women’s economic empowerment — a holistic approach to sustainable agriculture and community resilience.
Regenerative Agriculture for Climate Action in Luxor
In El-Adayma village (Luxor), the Coptic Association for Social Care launched the project “Regenerative Agriculture Applications to Address Climate Change Impacts.”
Through demonstration fields, the project introduced ridge (raised-bed) wheat cultivation, a technique proven to save water, increase yields, and improve soil aeration, thereby strengthening food security and enhancing climate resilience in rural communities.
From Small Grants to Big Impact
These projects illustrate how small-scale funding can generate large-scale transformation when intelligently directed to those who need it most.
The Small Grants Programme is not merely a funder of environmental initiatives — it is a true development partner, fostering collaboration between civil society, local governments, and farmers to build a greener and more sustainable future for Egypt.