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Rooftop farming has become an essential solution to shrinking agricultural land in cities, promoting organic and pesticide-free crops. The village of “Aoun” exemplifies how rooftop gardens can transform poverty into self-sufficiency, providing families with additional income and fresh produce. Founded in 2011, Schaduf has implemented 150 rooftop farms in Cairo and plans to expand to 500 farms in Helwan over three years, offering training and community support.

Schaduf, founded in 2011, is an Egyptian company specializing in rooftop and vertical farming using hydroponic technology. Its projects aim to increase urban green spaces, provide families with clean food, and generate additional income, particularly in areas of Cairo like Helwan. Through training, support, and community initiatives, Schaduf has implemented over 150 rooftop farms, growing leafy vegetables and experimenting with some fruit crops.

Many Egyptians face the challenge of maintaining a stable income, with around 25% living below the poverty line. Schaduf aims to provide a secondary income source through rooftop farming, using cost-effective, high-yield, and easy-to-install units made from locally sourced components. Initial trials with arugula production showed promising results, and the design now includes supplemental lighting, making the system affordable and highly productive for low-income users.

Schaduf has partnered with 500 low-income families in Helwan to install hydroponic rooftop units, providing training and buying back the produce. Each unit, costing 12,000 EGP, is fully funded by the company. The system saves water, reduces pesticide use, and maximizes yield in limited space, ideal for leafy crops like spinach and arugula.

Amid rising carbon emissions and climate challenges, Schaduf—founded in 2011 by Sherif and Tarek Hosny—helps transform Egypt’s rooftops into productive, eco-friendly hydroponic farms and green walls. The company empowers low-income communities while also serving commercial clients with sustainable rooftop and vertical garden solutions. With over 32,000 m² of cultivated rooftops and partnerships with major developers, Schaduf is reshaping Egypt’s urban landscape into a greener, more resilient environment.

Schaduf is turning unused rooftops and walls into green spaces that help reduce pollution in Cairo. The company supports low-income families by enabling them to grow their own vegetables. Since launching, Schaduf has completed over 30 projects and continues to receive growing interest from households and businesses.

Schaduf, a Cairo-based green-tech startup founded in 2011, transforms unused rooftops and building walls into productive green spaces to reduce pollution and beautify the city. The company installs vertical gardens and rooftop farms for homes, businesses, and low-income areas, helping residents grow vegetables for food and supplemental income. With more than 30 completed projects and rising demand, Schaduf aims to expand its sustainable agriculture solutions across Egypt and the region.

Schaduf, founded by brothers Sherif and Tarek Hosny, empowers low-income Egyptians by transforming unused rooftops into productive hydroponic farms. Inspired by the traditional “shaduf” irrigation tool, the initiative provides affordable rooftop farming systems supported by training, micro-loans, and market access. Through simple, scalable solutions, Schaduf is building food security, steady income streams, and greener urban communities across Cairo.

Schaduf, launched in 2010, empowers low-income communities in Cairo through soilless hydroponic rooftop farming. The initiative promotes green spaces, sustainable agriculture, and water conservation in urban areas. Schaduf also leads in green roofs and walls, enhancing air quality and adding decorative greenery to the city.