In a beautiful blend of heritage and empowerment, the Desert Research Center has successfully launched an inspiring training program dedicated to supporting the resilient women of Siwa. This initiative, captured in a series of vibrant images, marks a significant step toward economic independence for the local community.
Engineer Mahmoud El-Amir, Director of the Matrouh Sustainable Development Center, emphasized that the Center is steadfast in its mission to uplift women. By organizing specialized training sessions, the program focuses on breathing new life into unexploited natural resources—specifically palm fronds (Khous) and alfalfa (Halfa). This visionary approach not only seeks to enhance household incomes and spark fresh job opportunities but also ensures the provision of raw materials and the opening of dedicated outlets and exhibitions to showcase these artisanal treasures to the world.
Sharing the success of the initiative, Dr. Esraa Gamal, the Women’s Officer at the Siwa Center, revealed that 38 talented women have already completed their training. The program was expertly delivered across two specialized groups in the Saboukha and “Ebny Beitak” areas. Dr. Gamal noted a remarkable surge in interest, with participants eager to master professional techniques that elevate the quality and competitiveness of their handcrafted products.
The ambition doesn’t stop here. The Women’s Department at the Matrouh Sustainable Development Center is already looking toward the horizon. Future plans include a diverse array of workshops covering the intricate arts of sewing, traditional Siwan embroidery, macramé, and crochet. These efforts are designed to deepen the economic empowerment of women and foster sustainable development within desert regions.
This impactful work is part of the “Building Resilience in Remote Saharan Environments” (PRIDE) project. Jointly funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Egyptian Government, the project remains dedicated to supporting developmental activities that empower breadwinning women and transform livelihoods across the desert landscape.
