“The first phase of the initiative targeted 100,000 farmers in 8 governorates during the agricultural season 2022/2023. The second phase of the initiative aims to reach 500,000 farmers in 15 governorates across the republic during the agricultural season 2023/2024. This includes providing high-quality certified seeds with 50% support, offering technical assistance, field schools, fertilizers, and helping farmers implement good agricultural practices in wheat cultivation. These efforts assist them in increasing their productivity and reducing production costs for the crop. These activities are part of the interventions package within the ‘Azra’ initiative.

The launch of the second phase of the ‘Azra’ initiative took place at the Agriculture Directorate in Qena governorate. The initiative aims to encourage 500,000 farmers in 15 governorates, namely (Beheira, Qalyubia, Dakahlia, Giza, Menoufia, Sharqia, Fayoum, Beni Suef, Minya, Assiut, Sohag, Qena, Luxor, Aswan, and New Valley) to cultivate one million acres of strategic crops. This is achieved through a package of essential interventions, including providing subsidized seeds from the Ministry of Agriculture, implementing field schools, and offering ongoing technical support.”