asked in 2005

1. What do you mean by the "Economics of love"?

Economics of Love means transparent relationships between different actors in the supply chain. To attain the essence of this relation we also establish partnerships with farmers and traders, where this long-standing relationship embraces the concepts of fair trade and the ultimate care for society.


2. Do you believe that your business concepts could be transferred to other economical sectors and enterprises?

Yes, these concepts could be adapted to other economical sectors and circumstances. However, for these concepts to spread and flourish it is essential that people who believe in the responsibility of their business towards their society would devote a part of their time, effort and resources towards the idea of corporate social responsibility.


3. What were the main obstacles you faced when launching SEKEM?
 
The concept of environmental care or environmental awareness did not exist at all in Egypt, it was not even considered. The government officials and administration were totally prejudiced against organic cultivation which was unknown to them. They were suspicious and fearful that the natural constitute micro-organism in the compost might multiply like a disease which will “poison” the surroundings. The unusual activities at Sekem farm aroused suspicion and fear amongst the Bedouins as well as the military, the administration and the department of agriculture.
The Banks had their set economic policies and could not adapt to new economic attitudes and principles of co-operation and partnership.
Skilled labour was non-existing; all training had to be undertaken as in-service training over long periods. The lack of trained experts is still one of the main obstacles for Egypt’s further development.