Fatima Al-Fanagry

Sudanese environmental scientist leading desertification reversal initiatives in the Sahara-Sahel region

Championing Green Recovery

Dr. Fatima Al-Fanagry (b. 1978) pioneered the Great Green Wall Sudan Project, planting over 1 billion trees across Sudan's degraded lands since 2005. Her research on drought-resistant acacia species led to the creation of the "Sudanese Acacia Network" which now spans 7 countries.

Innovative Approaches

Al-Fanagry's team developed the first solar-powered irrigation systems using recycled materials, enabling communities to cultivate crops in previously barren areas. Her 2016 study in the Journal of Arid Environments showed a 40% increase in agricultural yields in project zones. The UNCCD adopted her model as a global blueprint for desertification control.

Community Empowerment

She established the Women's Agroforestry Cooperatives, training 50,000 Sudanese women in sustainable farming techniques. Her initiative "Trees for Tomorrow" integrates education programs where students receive tree saplings for academic achievements. This approach has reduced school dropout rates by 30% in participating regions.

Global Recognition

Recipient of the 2020 Right Livelihood Award, Al-Fanagry's work was featured in the BBC documentary series "Earth's Last Hope". Her book "Growing Against the Desert" (2019) details her strategies for climate resilience. She currently advises the African Union's Climate Smart Agriculture Initiative.