Transforming Banana Waste into a Thriving Sustainable Enterprise: The Banana Fabric Story

06/02/2025

Eng. Hagar Mohamed Mahmoud, owner of the "Banana Fabric" startup, credits the "Enhancing Water Productivity in Agriculture" project, funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO) in Egypt, for her success. "I'm incredibly excited to share our journey – a journey that's not only tackled a serious environmental challenge but also blossomed into a thriving economic opportunity for our local community. This inspiring transformation wouldn't have been possible without the generous support of the Enhancing Water Productivity project,” says Hagar.

After attending an FAO entrepreneurship training program, Hagar developed her business idea, transforming it into a feasible project with FAO support. "Banana Fabric" officially launched on January 20, 2025.

Based in Qena, the startup addresses the massive waste problem created by banana farms. Previously, this waste was typically burned, polluting the air and contributing to global warming, or dumped in waterways, harming the local ecosystem. "Banana Fabric" offers a sustainable solution.

The startup not only prevents the burning of waste, reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, but also pioneers the production of biofertilizers from this waste as well as banana fabrics. Biofertilizers liquid produced through a special squeezing process that extract nutrients, improve soil health by enhancing water and nutrient retention. This is particularly crucial in Egypt's dry climate, leading to healthier soil, better harvests, and reduced need for chemical fertilizers. Furthermore, it prevents waste from polluting waterways and environment in wider scope. FAO provided both technical and financial support, including machinery for fiber production and liquid packaging.

Hagar and her business partner, Mahmoud Dandarawy, manage the startup with six employees: three focused on machinery operation and three on collecting banana wests from farmers. "Banana Fabric" is a testament to the power of sustainable innovation and community-driven solutions.

Economic Benefits

The "Banana Fabric" startup offers significant economic advantages to the local community. Farmers will soon have a valuable new income stream by selling their banana waste, transforming what was once a cost into a source of revenue. While currently farmers are not paid, this is planned for the second phase of the business. Furthermore, the startup creates jobs within local industries. Artisans can utilize banana fibers to craft textiles, opening new market opportunities. Hagar has already produced sample handmade bags from banana fiber, demonstrating the potential to textile factories and handicraft projects, to which she will later distribute the fiber. This practice is already successful internationally, with India and the Philippines leading in this trade.

"Banana Fabric" also provides farmers with affordable and sustainable organic fertilizers made from banana waste. This offers a healthier and more cost-effective alternative to expensive and environmentally damaging chemical fertilizers. By connecting local industries to new markets, the startup boosts the regional economy and empowers farmers and artisans.

The project's emphasis on improving farmers' access to credit and supporting income-generating initiatives has been crucial to "Banana Fabric's" success. Hagar envisions a bright future: “As we grow, we hope to inspire similar sustainable agricultural ventures across Egypt and beyond.” The business model, built on sustainable agriculture and a circular economy, promises lasting benefits to communities nationwide.

"Banana Fabric" exemplifies the power of innovation and sustainability, transforming a problem into an opportunity – an opportunity for a cleaner environment, a stronger local economy, and a brighter future. “We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished, and we can't wait to see the positive impact continue to grow in the years to come,” Hagar exclaimed.

Banana Fabric is not only a pioneering environmental initiative but also a testament to the power of women-led innovation in sustainable business. As a female entrepreneur in the agricultural sector a field traditionally dominated by men Hagar Mohamed Mahmoud is breaking barriers and inspiring a new generation of women to pursue entrepreneurship and leadership roles. Through her startup, she is fostering inclusive economic growth, creating job opportunities for both men and women, and demonstrating the vital role of women in driving sustainability and economic resilience. By empowering women with training, resources, and business opportunities, Banana Fabric contributes to a more equitable and prosperous future.