Biodynamic oranges from the desert

Founded in 1977 amidst the arid landscapes northeast of Cairo, SEKEM emerged as a beacon of social entrepreneurship. Dr. Ibrahim Abouleish envisioned an economy harmonizing with people, society, and nature. What began as a humble 70-hectare organic farm has since blossomed into a thriving village bustling with diverse economic endeavors. 

Today SEKEM is an inspiration to many, boasting a conglomerate of companies and initiatives that employ 2000 individuals. Spanning 2500 hectares, SEKEM's cultivation adheres strictly to organic and biodynamic principles, yielding a bounty of 100% organic produce, oils, and textiles. In the language of ancient Egypt, SEKEM translates to 'Vitality for the sun'. 

Eosta and SEKEM share a storied history as trailblazers in holistic sustainability, co-founding the sustainability flower model—a framework to assess suppliers' social and ecological impact.  

Beyond its own cultivation efforts, SEKEM collaborates with and supports 26000 small holder farmers across 20.000 hectares. Facilitating their transition to organic practices. A professional carbon credit system provides additional income for the farmers used for ecological services needed for the transition. 

SEKEM believes education is very important, the children of workers attending SEKEM schools. In 2009, the visionary Dr. Abouleish founded Heliopolis University for Sustainable Development, with Organic Agriculture as one of its five faculties. The university boasts 2800 students and enjoys a partnership with Maastricht University in the Netherlands.

During a recent producer visit to Egypt, Eosta colleagues Gert-Jan and Peke participated in the vibrant life of SEKEM village and farms. They joined the week closure, where children, parents and workers gather in a circle at the centre square of the village. A poignant reminder of equality and care for humanity. 

Peke, Eosta's citrus buyer, shares his impressions of SEKEM: "Walking through the SEKEM Village and Farm in Wahat, the diversity at the farms and serene ambiance of the factories are truly captivating. We are delighted to resume sourcing citrus from SEKEM. Businesses such as this serve as a great source of inspiration for both ourselves and other producers we work with.  

This month Eosta will start receiving fresh Organic Valencia Oranges from SEKEM. 

Reach out to your Eosta sales contact for more details. Join us in supporting the essence of social entrepreneurship and sustainable agricultural practices, as practiced by SEKEM.