Food & Climate
The United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) awarded the SEKEM Egypt the “Champions of the Earth” award in the “Leadership Vision” category for the year 2024, for its role in combating desertification, land degradation and drought.
The SEKEM Egypt was the only institution in the African continent and the Middle East region to receive this award for the year 2024, according to a statement received by “Food & Climate” platform.
New African magazine also chose the CEO of the SEKEM Egypt Group, Helmy Abouleish, among the list of the 100 most influential Africans in 2024, in the “Civil Society” category. The magazine selects members of the list from leaders and institutions that contribute greatly to the development of civil society on the level of the African continent.
Economy of Love
Nearly 50 years ago, the “Economy of Love” (EoL) model was introduced by SEKEM Egypt. This innovative approach, rooted in sustainable development and community empowerment, prioritizes ethical practices, social responsibility, and environmental sustainability across the entire value chain.
The EoL model has proven its effectiveness in fostering businesses to produce high-quality, healthy products while contributing positively to their local communities.
Recognizing the potential of EoL, the Egyptian Biodynamic Association (EBDA) has further developed it into a certification standard. This standard provides a comprehensive framework that assists farmers in transitioning to biodynamic and organic agricultural practices.
By doing so, it enhances farmers’ livelihoods by enabling them to generate additional income through initiatives that reward their environmental efforts, such as participating in carbon credit programs. Furthermore, this approach actively addresses pressing global challenges, including food security, water scarcity, and climate change.
Moreover, economic growth thrives within a holistic community that values cultural and social dimensions. By fostering a culture of lifelong learning, well-being, and creative engagement, the EoL model empowers individuals to connect meaningfully with one another and their surroundings. Additionally, the model promotes fair and dignified working conditions that ensures that every person feels safe and respected, further enhancing the community’s overall vitality and resilience.
15,312 farmers
To date, the Egyptian Biodynamic Association (EBDA) has effectively assisted 15,312 farmers in transitioning to biodynamic and organic agriculture, resulting in the conversion of over 55,000 acres of land by embracing the EoL principles. This underscores the model’s viability and effectiveness in fostering a more sustainable future for both businesses and communities.
Commenting on the latest recognition, Helmy Abouleish, CEO of the SEKEM Egypt, stated: “I am deeply inspired to continue building upon the 47-year legacy of my late father, Dr. Ibrahim Abouleish”.
“Our journey began in disbelief, with my father’s visionary (Economy of Love) concept transforming a barren desert into a thriving oasis. Today, SEKEM stands as a testament to his dream, a network of organizations fostering community well-being, healthy living, and sustainable practices. We are honored that our holistic approach is gaining increasing recognition. We envision a world where businesses and the environment thrive in harmony, where people live, work, and flourish in safety and support”, he added.
Building on this success, SEKEM Egypt, in collaboration with the Egyptian Biodynamic Association (EBDA), is striving towards an ambitious goal: to support 40,000 farmers during their transition to organic and biodynamic farming practices by the end 2025.
With the vision of promoting sustainable development in economy, ecology, society and culture, Dr. Ibrahim Abouleish founded the SEKEM Initiative in the Egyptian desert in 1977. The SEKEM group of companies produces, processes and markets organic and biodynamic food, textiles and herbal medicines in Egypt and on international markets. SEKEM is considered the Egyptian organic pioneer.