Dr. Hossam Shawky, President of Desert Research Center (DRC), paid an unannounced visit to the Siwa Research Station to follow up on ongoing research and development activities, in line with directives from the Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, Mr. Alaa Farouk
During the visit, he inspected the final ripening stages of Siwa dates, praising recent improvements that enhanced fruit quality and reduced costs. He stressed the importance of using natural pest control methods to maintain organic date production
Dr. Shawky also visited several community service facilities at the station, including the olive press, flour mill, and feed grinder, affirming the continuation of these services at symbolic prices to support local residents. He directed the expansion of compost production using local resources such as palm fronds and weeds, and recommended incorporating olive pomace into animal feed to boost its nutritional value
At the conclusion of his visit, Dr. Shawky emphasized the importance of supporting the local Siwan community, expanding the cultivation of medicinal, aromatic, and vegetable crops, and maintaining regular monitoring of progress under the supervision of Dr. Mohamed Ezzat, Vice President of the DRC and Head of Research Stations
