Future Farm expands to Qena with New 500-Feddan desert project

EGYPT –  Future Farm Egypt has announced the launch of a new 500-feddan (about 210 hectares) integrated agricultural project in Qeft, Qena Governorate, marking its second major site after the success of its desert farming model in Al-Farafra.

The area, located in Upper Egypt, benefits from natural artesian wells that supply self-flowing water, cutting the need for mechanical pumping and reducing energy costs.

Founder and project lead Abdelghany Hassan said the expansion builds on Future Farm’s mission to create climate-resilient food systems across the country. “Step by step, we are proving that sustainable, profitable farming in arid regions is possible and scalable,” he said.

A self-sufficient desert farm

The new project mirrors the Future Farm model used in Al-Farafra, featuring solar-powered irrigation, on-site livestock, organic fertilizer production, and circular resource management to minimize waste. The system supports the cultivation of crops such as alfalfa, wheat, and corn while maintaining soil health and conserving water.

By combining renewable energy and resource recycling, the Qena site operates as a closed-loop system that maximizes productivity with minimal environmental impact. “The natural water flow from the wells reduces pumping costs and energy use–making this site even more efficient and eco-friendly than before,” Hassan explained.

Regenerative agriculture for climate action

Future Farm Egypt focuses on regenerative farming to restore soil health and improve biodiversity in desert zones. This approach supports Egypt’s efforts to strengthen climate resilience and achieve food security, especially as land degradation and water scarcity threaten traditional farming regions in the Nile Delta and Upper Egypt.

The initiative also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly zero hunger, climate action, and life on land. Egypt’s agriculture market is projected to grow from US$30.3 billion in 2025 to US$47.2 billion by 2030, driven by rising populations and changing diets.

Yet, the country’s growing food demand–expected to increase beef, milk, poultry, and egg consumption several times over by 2050–requires efficient and sustainable production systems.

Opportunities for youth and rural growth

Beyond food production, Future Farm’s approach creates employment opportunities for young people through modern, tech-enabled farming.

The project introduces new roles in agritech, soil science, renewable energy, and livestock management, fostering entrepreneurship and local innovation.

By reducing reliance on food imports, which currently cost Egypt over US$11 billion each year, Future Farm’s work demonstrates how regenerative agriculture can offer both environmental and economic benefits.

“We’re grateful to everyone supporting our work toward cleaner energy and smarter agriculture for Egypt and the region,” Hassan said, reflecting the project’s broader goal of transforming arid landscapes into productive ecosystems.

With the Qeft site now operational, Future Farm continues to show that sustainable desert farming can thrive–and grow–as a cornerstone of Egypt’s agricultural future.

Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.