As part of the Crocodopolis impact campaign, we organized a three-day workshop in Aswan in 2023 to engage the local community, raise awareness about crocodile conservation, and explore the potential of ecotourism in the region.
We began the workshop with a youth-focused day, hosting a dynamic session for schoolchildren all about Nile Crocodiles—their habits, their environment, and the urgent dangers they face. Through interactive activities and guided discussions, the children explored big questions like: Why are crocodiles disappearing? What can be done to save them? Their curiosity and ideas were inspiring, reminding us of the power of environmental education.
On the second day, we brought the conversation to Aswan University, where local decision-makers, scientists, and conservation experts gathered to discuss strategies for preserving crocodile populations in Lake Nasser. Lead scientist Mohamed Ezzat presented the outcomes of his extensive research alongside Crocodopolis director Omar Manjouneh and impact producer Aya Tallah Yusuf. Together, they introduced the goals of the impact campaign and highlighted how ecotourism could serve as a tool for both environmental protection and local development.
We closed the workshop with a birdwatching tour designed to spotlight Aswan’s untapped potential as an ecotourism destination. Participants explored the natural beauty of the area while discussing how to position Aswan on the international ecotourism map, the opportunities and challenges facing the local tourism industry, and how biodiversity can be meaningfully integrated into the province’s development and investment plans. We thank everyone who joined us and look forward to the next edition of the Crocodopolis Impact Campaign.
We’re grateful to Nature Conservation Egypt (NCE) for organizing this event, to Aflamuna • أفلامُنا for their support and the Arab Origami Center for the beautiful origami crocodiles.
