Business Challenge workshop highlights horticulture challenges and opportunities in Egypt

On October 27, 2024, the MOBILISE project team facilitated a Business Challenge Workshop in Cairo, Egypt, aimed at exploring key challenges and identifying growth opportunities within the country’s agri-business sector. The event brought together 18 participants, including representatives from various companies operating in the agri-business sector, Dutch Embassy officials, and academics from Kafr El Sheikh University.  

During the workshop, participants discussed the significant challenges faced by the agri-business sector in Egypt. Key issues included a mismatch between the educational system and labor market needs, technical challenges in areas like irrigation, soil management, and waste management, as well as financing difficulties for small producers. Another major concern was the disconnected nature of agricultural value chains, which hinder the sector’s efficiency and growth potential. 

Amid these challenges, several promising opportunities emerged. Participants emphasized the potential for developing climate-resilient irrigation systems and crop technologies that could enhance agricultural productivity in the face of climate change. Strengthening collaboration between academia and the private sector was identified as a crucial step towards fostering innovation and addressing sector-specific challenges. There was also a strong call for improving value chains and exploring export potential to drive economic growth. 

The workshop reinforced the importance of cooperation between Egypt’s private sector and the MOBILISE project. By aligning business interests with local market needs, participants recognized the value of a circular talent development program that bridges the gap between education, industry, and climate-smart agriculture practices. 

In conclusion, the workshop highlighted the critical role of continued collaboration to drive forward sustainable innovation in Egypt’s agri-business sector, ensuring that the next generation of entrepreneurs is equipped to address both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.