Jordan is one of the most water-scarce countries in the world, and it is severely affected by climate change. The country’s water sector influences agriculture, food security, peace, conflict, and even migration. As the climate shifts, these sectors face increasing pressure.
In 2017, the Sahara Forest Project (SFP) was established in Aqaba, in the south of Jordan, to produce food, energy, and life in the desert. This region endures extreme weather conditions. In fact, according to the International Meteorological Organization, Aqaba recorded the highest temperature in the world in October 2020, reaching 44.6°C.
The core idea behind SFP is to desalinate water from the Red Sea and use solar energy to power greenhouses in the heart of the desert. These greenhouses grow food that is not only consumed locally but also exported internationally. It’s a powerful example of turning challenges into opportunities— creating life where none existed before.
However, climate change is not just an environmental issue. It’s also social and political. Innovation and human resource development are the keys to solving these issues in the MENA region. Natural resources alone are not enough without people to drive change.
Socially, the Sahara Forest Project provides numerous job opportunities for locals in Aqaba and offers extensive training for Jordanian youth. This includes special programs aimed at empowering women in the agricultural sector, giving them the skills they need to be part of the solution.
After desalinating water from the Red Sea, the project uses it to irrigate crops like eggplants, tomatoes, sweet peppers, and many other plants. Additionally, She Grows is a network for alumni of the Sahara Forest Project’s programs. It helps Jordanian women develop skills in the water-energy-food nexus and encourages their involvement in Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action. Finally, climate change is real, and we must intensify our efforts to mitigate its impact on our communities. By acting together—both locally and globally—we can create meaningful change. Let’s ensure a sustainable planet for future generations. Act today to shape a better tomorrow.