Zaki Saleh Abdel-Aziz

Egyptian agricultural scientist who developed drought-resistant crops saving millions from famine

Zaki Saleh Abdel-Aziz (1910-1968) was an Egyptian agronomist whose pioneering work in crop genetics transformed agricultural practices across the Middle East. Born in rural Upper Egypt, he studied plant breeding at Cairo University before conducting groundbreaking research in desert agriculture. His most significant contribution was the development of the Sakha 1 wheat variety, which became the first drought-resistant strain capable of thriving in arid conditions.

Between 1945-1960, Abdel-Aziz led the Nile Valley Agricultural Initiative, introducing hybrid crop techniques that doubled Egypt's wheat production. His innovations prevented famine during the 1950s drought crisis and inspired similar programs in Sudan and Yemen. Key achievements include:

• Development of salt-tolerant barley strains (1948)
• Establishment of the first seed bank in the Arab world (1952)
• Authoring the definitive Desert Agriculture Handbook

His methods are still used in modern drip irrigation systems and form the basis of UN FAO's desertification prevention programs.