Gharbia

is one of the governorates of Egypt. It is located in the north of the country, south of Kafr El Sheikh Governorate, and north of Monufia Governorate. Its capital is Tanta, which is 90 km north of Cairo, and 120 km southeast of Alexandria. The largest city in Gharbia is El Mahalla El Kubra. The total area of Gharbia governorate is 1,942 km2.

Overview Gharbia is blessed with a location in the center of Delta region which made it privileged with a distinguished agricultural and industrial position among other Egyptian governorates. The governorate is renowned for growing traditional crops such as cotton, rice, wheat, fava beans, maize and fruits, in addition to Jasmine, and medical herbs and plants whose extracts and pastes are exported to Europe. The governorate is also famous for growing potatoes for exports and local market. It hosts the International Center for Potatoes as well in Kafr el-Zayaat. Zeifta city is famous for linen and barley production. It produces 80% of Egypt’s linen and barley production. Gharbia is a lead governorate in livestock and poultry breeding. In the industry field, it hosts large industries including spinning and weaving, as well as dying in el-Mahala el-Kobbra, Tanta, and Zeifta. Also, Kafr el-Zayaat hosts industries of oils, soaps, fertilizers, pesticides, chemicals, and paper as well as fragrances in Kotour.

HistoryvThe name of al-Gharbiyya is an Arabic term meaning “The Western one” or “The Western Side”.[4] In the 13th century it comprised 165 villages, while the 15th-century geographer al-Qalqashandi describes it as fertile and prosperous.vEl Mahalla El Kobra was the provincial capital until 1836, when it was later succeeded by Tanta.[4]vHistorical places: 1- Tanta’s museum. 2- ali beik al kabeer avenue. 3- El Sa’aa Square In modern times, it is notable for the cultivation of cotton, and its textile industry.

Projects and programs  

In 2016, Switzerland committed to funding a solid waste management program in Gharbia, a project with the Egyptian Ministry of Environment that will conclude in 2021. The National Solid Waste Management Programme (NSWMP) involves the construction of infrastructure for new, as well as the expansion and improvement of existing waste treatment, landfill, and recycling facilities.