2023: Empowering Egyptian Farmers, Individual Livelihoods & Environmental Sustainability
Egyptian farmer holding wheat during harvest
In a remarkable endeavor spanning from 2021 to 2023, our Rural Development Program achieved significant milestones, transforming the lives of farmers and communities across targeted villages. Through collaborative efforts, innovative practices, and unwavering commitment, we made a lasting impact on rural development. Here are the key achievements:
1. Diversification of Crops
One of the cornerstones of our program was the introduction of new high-income crops to farmers in previously uncultivated areas. In El-Zoar village, 112 farmers embraced the cultivation of anise, cumin, black seed, and potatoes. This diversification has not only bolstered economic prosperity but also enhanced food security in these communities. Farmers now have access to new markets and income streams, making their livelihoods more resilient to market fluctuations and climatic challenges.
2. Addressing the National Wheat Crisis
Amidst the national wheat crisis, our participation in the National Wheat Campaign proved pivotal. We distributed modern, disease-resistant wheat seeds to 500 farmers across 13 villages in governorates like Sharkia, Beni Suef, and Luxor. This initiative not only increased productivity but also conserved over 20% of irrigation water, promoting sustainable agricultural practices. By improving wheat yield and reducing water usage, we contributed significantly to both food security and resource conservation in these regions.
3. Nematode Control and Land Protection
In Abu Jalban village, we undertook a concerted effort to safeguard 23 acres of agricultural land from nematode infestation. By employing effective control methods, we managed to curtail the spread of nematodes, which in turn reduced the risk of fungal and bacterial infections. This intervention has preserved the health of the soil and ensured continued agricultural productivity, benefiting the local farming community and contributing to long-term land sustainability.
4. Animal Health and Vaccination
Animal health is crucial for rural livelihoods, and our program made significant strides in this area. Collaborating with local veterinary units, we facilitated access to the government-supported national vaccination campaign. As a result, 19,264 cattle, 9,984 sheep, and 1,243 goats received vital vaccinations. This intervention has significantly decreased animal mortality rates, ensuring that farmers do not lose their livestock to preventable diseases. Healthier animals mean better productivity, improved nutrition, and greater economic stability for farming households.
Conclusion
The achievements of our Rural Development Program from 2021 to 2023 underscore the transformative power of collaborative efforts, innovative practices, and a steadfast commitment to rural development. By diversifying crops, addressing critical agricultural crises, protecting land, and enhancing animal health, we have empowered farmers, enhanced livelihoods, and fostered sustainability in targeted villages. As we move forward, we remain dedicated to building on these successes, ensuring that rural communities continue to thrive and prosper.
This Holiday Season, Get the Gift that Keeps On Giving!
The holidays are a special time of year. The year is drawing to an end, gifts are being purchased, and an abundance of food is being passed around at offices, schools, and homes. For those living in poverty in Egypt, there is a completely different scenario going on. BLESS servants are continuously working, through the holiday season and year round, to support the needs of the brethren of the Lord: appropriate healthcare, quality education, shelter, and housing. Through the grace of God, this work is enabled by member contributions. Together, let us serve the Lord for the glory of His kingdom by ministering to the brethren of the Lord: “‘for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me’” (Matthew 25:35-36).
The Magic of the Matching Gift Concept
Employer philanthropy aligns employee contributions at work to their personal missions. So many companies have committed to 100% matching employee contributions, referred to as matching gifts. From PepsiCo, to Starbucks, to GE and others; this is a growing national trend. Even smaller, private companies are joining in, so, ask around at work. Many professionals report a serious boost in morale at their workplace when they see their companies equally contributing to causes they care about.
Taking Actions that Leave Us with Peace
We all know this. There are things we purchase because they are marketed to us as though they will make all the difference to our lives. How often is that actually true? With causes and missions that enrich others, we enjoy the peace that comes from the Holy Spirit that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7). When you contribute to the lives of the brethren of the Lord, your choices bring upon a positive impact in the lives of the marginalized, who rarely encounter relief from the burdens of life. In doing so, we too receive blessings, remembering the words of our Lord Jesus, and how He said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). Let’s close out 2023 in generosity and love. God bless us all this holiday season.
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