The 'Capacity Building to Develop Farmers Markets' training programme, organised under the Mediterranean and African Markets Initiative (MAMi - Farmers Markets) MAMi project, started today and will continue until 4 July 2024 in Alexandria, Egypt.

The training, attended by 45 farmers from Al Beheira and Abis in Alexandria, was held under the auspices of Mr. Ahmed El Wakil, President of Alexandria Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Alexandria Chamber team represented by Mr. Mohamed Mehdawy, Secretary General, Dr. Yasser Al Manawishy, Treasurer of Alexandria Chamber, and Dr. Eman Seif, Deputy Secretary General.

The session was opened by Carmelo Sigliuzzo, Technical Coordinator of CIHEAM Bari, and focused on introducing the community of the five countries involved in the project and presenting the current state of the project. He emphasised the importance of individual farmers participating in the short chain and sharing the project's objectives. The morning session continued with the speech delivered by Pietro Hausmann, national manager of the Campagna Amica market, who introduced the importance of direct sales opportunities and sales modalities in Farmers Markets.

Aim of the training: Provide a comprehensive understanding of the MAMi project, explore direct sales opportunities and discuss the processes and actions required to set up and open a Farmers Market. The sessions were designed to cover legislative aspects, internal market regulations and to stimulate discussion among farmers to foster a vibrant and successful market environment.

The MAMi - Farmers Markets project, funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and implemented by CIHEAM Bari in collaboration with the World Farmers Market and Campagna Amica, is committed to promoting sustainable food systems. The project aims to meet the Sustainable Development Goals by adopting environmentally friendly food practices that can have a positive impact on building resilient communities.