Untitled Notes

Location: Egyptian desert, notable construction evident from satellite imagery.
Description: Giant green circles indicative of irrigation and agriculture, massive river with small canals being built.
Speculation: Possible intention to flood the desert; military presence visible with numerous installations.

Egypt currently facing economic crisis and food security issues.
Historical background surrounding government changes and protests against corruption, contributing to the present political situation and military control over projects.
Past protests in early 2011 led to Mubarak's resignation; subsequent democratic elections in 2012 resulted in Muhammad Morsy's presidency but were short-lived due to military coup.
General Abdel Fatah Elsisi came into power in 2014 under questionable electoral practices, promised stability but tightened control over freedoms and human rights.
The military plays a significant role in the New Delta project, intertwining it with security interests.

Research initiated with satellite technology, revealing extensive green circles across Egypt’s desert, indicating large-scale agricultural attempts.
Initial impressions versus reality: circles appear small, but they measure hundreds of meters in diameter upon closer inspection.
Satellite images reveal these constructions in the area referred to as the "New Delta."

Transforming almost 10,000 km² of wasteland into arable farmland aims to:
- Boost farming capacity and food supply.
- Reduce reliance on food imports.
- Create jobs promoting economic growth.

Only 4% of land is suitable for agriculture, with population density impacting available farmland.
Current population: 116 million, projected to reach 175 million by 2050.
Food security issues: 8.5% of the population undernourished, high rates of malnutrition among children.
Dependence on wheat imports (80% from Russia and Ukraine).

Lack of transparent data regarding project costs and operations.
Experts note that the military's involvement creates barriers to discussing project details.

Historical failures of similar projects (e.g., Tushka and Sai projects) cast doubt on New Delta’s sustainability.
Notable figures like David Sims emphasize the tendency for grand schemes without deliverables due to financial and environmental challenges.

Primary sources include:
- Groundwater; particularly notable is the Nubian sandstone aquifer system.
- Treated wastewater from industrial sources, notably from the Aaman wastewater treatment plant.
- The Nile water sourced through a network of constructed canals.

Establishment of canals crucial for irrigation:
- First canal: 42 km, channels Nile water, leading to northern New Delta.
- Second canal: 114 km long with a capacity to carry up to 3.5 billion cubic meters of water annually.
- Extensive pumping necessary to transport water to cultivation areas, adding to operational costs.

Center pivot irrigation noted for its efficient watering technique, allowing agriculture in harsh desert conditions.
Existing crops include wheat, corn, peanuts, which demand substantial water.

Initial estimates of project costs around $10.2 billion, but expenses are continuously under review.
Significant financial investment needed for infrastructure, pumping operations, and maintenance.

Measurable success in crop production, but a large portion is exported, raising questions about domestic food availability.
Reports indicate that the project has facilitated exports of over 400 agricultural products, with 2023 producing a high volume of export revenue.

Economic benefits largely beneficial to the state rather than improving conditions for ordinary citizens.
Ongoing poverty concerns: Two-thirds of the population living at or below poverty; economic improvements from projects are questionable.

Recent construction of the Grand Renaissance Dam by Ethiopia raises concerns about water supply for Egypt’s projects.
Tensions between Egypt and Ethiopia due to potential water shortages from the Nile, critically affecting agricultural initiatives.
Dependency on Nile water underscores the fragility of Egypt's food security strategy.

Future of the New Delta Project: While visionary in concept, significant concerns around sustainability, transparency, and equitable benefits persist.
Increased focus on military and geopolitical interests over agricultural success may inhibit progress in achieving actual food security for the Egyptian populace.