Module 5 - Egypt: Matruh Resource Management to Ensure Sustainable Livelihoods for Remote Bedouin People

Benefits and Impacts

The first Matruh project (1994-2002) has been recognized for its innovative participatory approach. To conserve the natural resource base, 1.2 million cubic meters of water storage facilities were constructed, exceeding the estimated target by about five times and representing an increase in water availability of 45 percent. The project also established 250 rangeland management units, and it established fodder trees and shrubs on approximately 5,000 hectares. The project helped to improve livelihoods in several ways and thereby, reduce poverty. Construction of facilities for safe storage of drinking water yielded health and agricultural benefits for the Bedouin population. Increased fodder availability and genetic improvement raised income from livestock production, and the adoption of high-yielding varieties increased the productivity of barley, olives, figs, and vegetables (increases ranged from 27 to 70 percent). Overall, socioeconomic conditions were improved for 10,440 households. In addition, the project built a good foundation for local capacity in resource management through technical assistance, training, and support for project staff, farmers, and community representatives.

The second Matruh project (2003-2009) is continuing to improve local capacity by supporting local representatives, providing training in Community Action Plan development and implementation, providing access to information and communication facilities, and developing literacy classes and women’s groups. All community development activities take place within the framework of traditional tribal systems.

Based on experience with the first project, the second project added a component specifically directed at conserving biodiversity, increased the focus on generating off-farm income, and provided for the rehabilitation and construction of feeder roads.

Lessons Learned and Issues for Wider Applicability

• A multisectoral/multidisciplinary approach in NRM and poverty reduction projects is more likely to achieve objectives than single-sector projects.
  
  
• Participatory project implementation requires flexible budgeting that is not constrained to predetermined outputs, but relies on a demand-driven identification of activities.
  
  
• Adequate initial training and capacity building are prerequisites to the start-up of activities requiring beneficiary participation.
  
  
• Rural credit programs, particularly in remote areas, require innovative mechanisms that adapt to constraints on the financial institutions and on the beneficiaries.
  
  
• Targeting the poorest sections of a society where communities have strong traditional structures can be a challenging process.