From 15 to 19 February 2026, experts from the Italian Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA) conducted a technical mission to Egypt under the EU-KAFI Programme, organized by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), in collaboration with the Field Crops Research Institute (FCRI).
The mission aimed to strengthen the National Wheat Breeding Programme and accelerate the development of improved wheat varieties adapted to Egyptian conditions. Through field visits to Sakha, Gemmiza, and Sids Research Stations, experts evaluated wheat genetic materials and supported ongoing breeding activities.
A key milestone of the visit was the observation of the performance of new durum wheat lines from an advanced breeding population at Sids and Shandaweel Research Stations. Durum wheat, a high-protein variety mainly used for pasta and semolina, is particularly suited to dry and warm climates. The new genetic materials will be tested in 778 experimental plots across the two locations, supporting the selection of high-yielding and climate-resilient varieties.
By strengthening scientific cooperation, enhancing breeding infrastructure, and advancing both bread and durum wheat research, the mission contributes to increased wheat productivity, improved climate resilience, and stronger long-term food security in Egypt. Similar missions will also be conducted in the Nile Delta to support bread wheat improvement.
Funded by the European Union, the EU-KAFI Programme continues to promote sustainable and climate-resilient cereal production in line with Egypt’s national agricultural development priorities.
