Transforming communities: A journey towards sustainable development in Egypt

Sohag, Egypt (ILO News)– At the forefront of Egypt’s sustainability efforts in the Sohag governorate, 52-year-old Ezzat Shaker is leading transformative initiatives to enhance environmental practices in his community, aligning with Egypt's Vision 2030. Leveraging newly acquired knowledge of green jobs from a collaborative effort between the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the World Food Programme (WFP), Ezzat is advocating for renewable energy and improved waste management in his hometown, the Dar El Salam municipality.

A journey of transformation

Ezzat's educational journey began in 1987 when he started working as a labourer in Alexandria. His pursuit of better opportunities took him to work in Saudi Arabia from 1994 to 2000, yet he returned to Egypt with an urge to accomplish more for himself and his community. Upon his return, Ezzat began his education journey and earned a business diploma and a bachelor’s degree while also working for the Dar El Salam municipality, ultimately rising to the position of deputy director.

In October 2024, Ezzat joined an ILO-WFP training workshop in Minya as part of the "Employability of Youth in Green Jobs and Strengthening Public Employment Services " programme supported by the Egyptian Ministry of Local Development. The course focused on environmental awareness and protection, green skills, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development practices. This resonated deeply with Ezzat’s vision for his community and led him to propose several key initiatives to the Dar El Salam municipality, including:

1. Adopting solar energy: Ezzat recommended transitioning the municipality's energy sources from conventional fuel like diesel to solar power. He proposed a feasibility study to assess energy needs and determine the capacity required for solar panels, providing detailed cost comparisons and outlining the potential environmental and economic benefits. This initiative aims to reduce emissions and contribute to Egypt's sustainable development goals. The municipality’s engineering department quickly evaluated the solar energy project, and within two weeks, the team began installing the solar panels.

   

   © Ezzat Shaker/ILO

   © Ezzat Shaker/ILO

2. Improving waste management: Recognizing the pressing environmental challenges posed by waste, Ezzat proposed a partnership with a specialized recycling company through an official memorandum of understanding (MoU). His plan includes logistics for effective waste management, covering recycling initiatives, proper treatment and disposal of hazardous waste, and the reuse of agricultural waste as fodder or fertilizer, thus promoting a circular economy. This initiative is expected to create new jobs in the community, particularly for youth. Ezzat also advocated for community awareness campaigns to engage residents, schools, and governmental offices in waste collection efforts, promoting a cleaner environment and creating employment opportunities.

Community engagement and awareness

To support these initiatives, Ezzat is collaborating with local authorities and community leaders to organize awareness workshops on modern agricultural practices and sustainable waste management. From November 2 November to 30, 2024, four awareness seminars will be conducted in local village units for all municipal employees.

Specialized sessions will be held for agricultural department heads, local farmers, and community association leaders, focusing on the benefits of solar energy, modern irrigation techniques, and sustainable farming practices.

Building a sustainable future

These workshops will emphasize the essential role of local organizations in waste management, promoting effective recycling processes, converting waste into fuel and fertilizers, and ensuring the safe disposal of hazardous materials.

Ezzat aims to promote practices such as crop rotation and the use of organic fertilizers to secure both environmental sustainability and economic benefits.

© Ezzat Shaker/ ILO

© Ezzat Shaker/ ILO

Ezzat Shaker's journey from labourer to community leader illustrates the transformative power of education, resource allocation, and a commitment to sustainable development. His initiatives, inspired by the ILO-WFP training, are paving the way for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious Dar El Salam. The positive feedback from both the municipality and the community underscores the significant impact of individual dedication to community development and environmental stewardship. Ezzat's story is a powerful testament to the potential of grassroots leadership in fostering sustainable change.