Photo taken by photographer Samuel Leon Knaus SEKEM
In 1977, Dr. Ibrahim Abouleish founded SEKEM in a desert area about 60 km northeast of Cairo. Here, he wanted to realize his vision of a peace-promoting, sustainable development for nature, people, and animals by establishing the first farm. The name SEKEM originates from an ancient hieroglyph meaning “vitality from the sun.”
Pollution, drought, conflict, poverty, and illiteracy are some of the challenges SEKEM faces. The first SEKEM farm now covers more than 3,000 feddan (acres). Additionally, the “Greening the Desert” project “Privot SEKEM” is laying the foundation for new farms, since pollution from Cairo has become so severe that herbs, vegetables, and fruit grown at SEKEM are being contaminated.
Today, SEKEM is an economic, social, and ethical beacon in the world, based on biodynamic agriculture and an intercultural, peace-promoting lifestyle. SEKEM contributes to the development of individuals, communities, and the environment in a poor region of Egypt. SEKEM also offers kindergarten and school, based on Rudolf Steiner's pedagogy, for the children of employees and the local community.
By 2025, more than 2,500 farmers are SEKEM farmers, with a goal of 25,000 biodynamic farmers by 2057.
SEKEM has developed five business ventures and one university.
Nature Tex
The company produce clothes based on ecological cotton.
Pharma ATOS
The company produce natural medicine.
LOTUS
The company produce organic herbs and spices.
SEKEM Health
The company markets natural organic medicinal herbal products in both local and global markets.
Heliopolis University
Established in 2012 - The Arab African world's first University for Sustainability.
More information: https://hu.edu.eg/
SEKEM - Peacekeeping Sustainable Development Since 1977
SEKEM was founded on the idea of intercultural, sustainable development and stimulating peace in society. The vision that led Dr. Ibrahim Abouleish to dig the first well in the desert is still reflected in the way SEKEM operates. As a compass, SEKEM’s vision, mission, and values guide the daily work of all SEKEM companies, involving thousands of farmers, workers, children, and youth through education.
Sustainable development means building a future where each person can realize their unique potential, where humanity coexists in social structures based on dignity and peace, and where all economic activity aligns with ecological and ethical principles.
Photo taken by photographer Samuel Leon Knaus SEKEM - Ethical and Fair Business Practices
Modern society is largely shaped by division of labor and economic processes. Through collaboration, values are created and exchanged as goods and services. It is essential that everyone who contributes is fairly rewarded. This builds peace.
The income from SEKEM’s various ventures makes it possible to sustain and improve achievements into the future. Ambitious goals require reliable business partners. Therefore, global networks that ensure fair value creation are fundamental to sustainable economic development.
Photo taken by photographer Samuel Leon Knaus SEKEM - Promoting a Peaceful Society
Respect and dignity for each individual in SEKEM and society at large are guiding principles for building relationships. SEKEM’s Code of Conduct commits to protecting and promoting human rights in all activities. Every part of the value chain works for fair wages and safe working conditions. SEKEM is strongly committed to gender equality and women’s empowerment. A peaceful and sustainable society is built on equal rights and opportunities. Therefore, SEKEM strengthens women’s participation in all aspects of life.
Photo taken by photographer Samuel Leon Knaus Unfolding Human Potential
Peace-promoting cultural development is about individual human development from childhood to old age. We must find our own sources of inspiration—science, philosophy, religion, art, or beauty. This can only happen through freedom in cultural life and connections with other cultures via global networks. Free education and spiritual development must be top priorities. Through a holistic approach, each person can realize their potential and contribute to the development of society and the country.
Photo taken by photographer Samuel Leon Knaus Sustainable Agriculture in the Desert
All major religions emphasize that humans are stewards of the Earth, responsible for preserving and developing it. The goal is not only to reduce our “ecological footprint” but to enrich the soil and improve lives for those we work with.
Only through this can we maintain dignified conditions on a planet with over seven billion people and limited resources. Future generations will suffer the consequences of climate change. We need a responsible and holistic approach to growth. SEKEM is committed to developing all four peacepromoting dimensions of sustainability as outlined in the principles of the Economy of Love.
Read more on SEKEM’s website: https://sekem.com/en/index/
Photo taken by photographer Samuel Leon Knaus 
