What’s It Like to Run Palestine’s First Brewery in the West Bank?

Madees Khoury, the only female brewmaster in the West Bank and the Middle East, runs Taybeh Brewing Company, a microbrewery founded by her father, Nadim, over 30 years ago. Despite facing significant challenges due to the Israeli occupation, she continues to create authentic Palestinian craft beer for her community and has recently collaborated with Brewgooder to support Palestinian aid initiatives.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Madees Khoury is the only female brewmaster in the West Bank and the Middle East.
• Taybeh Brewing Company was established over 30 years ago by her father, Nadim Khoury.
• The brewery has faced numerous logistical challenges due to the Israeli occupation.
• Madees has launched a collaborative beer project to support Palestinian communities.
• The brewery represents resilience and hope for the Palestinian people.

The Legacy of Taybeh Brewing Company

Founded in the village of Taybeh, the Taybeh Brewing Company has become a symbol of Palestinian culture and resilience. Madees Khoury, now at the helm, is preserving her family's legacy while navigating the complexities of life under occupation. The brewery's inception came shortly after the 1993 Oslo Accords, which aimed to pave the way for a Palestinian state. Her father’s vision was to create a craft brewery that celebrated Palestinian identity and culture, which has continued to thrive despite the ongoing political turmoil.

The Challenges of Operating Under Occupation

The Israeli occupation presents numerous challenges for businesses in the West Bank, particularly for those reliant on imported materials. Over the past two years, Madees has faced increasing difficulties in obtaining essential supplies such as water, grain, and bottles. The blockade has made logistics incredibly complex, and the closure of borders has further strained her operations. Recent reports from the United Nations indicate a worrying trend of violence and intimidation from settlers in the region, complicating daily life for residents and business owners alike.

Resilience in Adversity

Despite these challenges, Madees has demonstrated remarkable resilience. The brewery not only provides employment for locals but also serves as a beacon of hope and a cultural touchstone in a region marked by conflict. The Khoury family has continued to run the brewery through difficult periods, including the Second Intifada, showcasing their commitment to their craft and community.

Recent Developments and International Collaborations

In a bid to extend their reach and support for the Palestinian cause, Taybeh Brewing Company has recently partnered with Brewgooder, a Scottish brewery known for its commitment to social causes. Together, they have launched the Sun & Stone lager, which is being distributed across 1,600 Co-op supermarkets in the UK. This initiative not only introduces Palestinian craft beer to a broader audience but also channels all profits towards humanitarian aid for Palestinians in both the West Bank and Gaza.

The Importance of Cultural Representation

Madees emphasises that the brewery represents more than just a business; it’s a statement against the narrative that often marginalises Palestinian voices. "It is a message to the whole world that Palestinians are like anyone else – we do drink beer, we do make beer, we do work and try to live normal lives," she asserts. The brewery is a testament to the spirit of the Palestinian people, embodying their resilience and cultural richness.

The Impact of the Israeli Occupation

The Israeli occupation has imposed severe restrictions on the Palestinian population, affecting daily life and business operations. Madees highlights the struggle to obtain necessary export permits and the difficulty of shipping products internationally due to Israeli control over ports. The limitations extend to basic resources, with the UN reporting alarming rates of water scarcity and food insecurity in the region, exacerbated by recent escalations in violence.

Conclusion: A Vision for the Future

As Madees Khoury continues to lead Taybeh Brewing Company, her journey reflects the broader Palestinian experience under occupation. The brewery stands as a symbol of hope and resilience, showcasing the creativity and determination of its people. With international collaborations like that with Brewgooder, Madees is not only preserving a family legacy but also advocating for her community on a global stage. The story of Taybeh Brewing is a reminder of the power of local initiatives in the face of adversity.

FAQs

Who is Madees Khoury?

Madees Khoury is the only female brewmaster in the West Bank and the Middle East, running the Taybeh Brewing Company, which was founded by her father over 30 years ago.

What challenges does Taybeh Brewing Company face?

The brewery faces significant challenges due to the Israeli occupation, including difficulties in obtaining supplies, export permits, and logistical support for shipping products internationally.

What is the significance of Taybeh Brewing Company?

Taybeh Brewing Company represents Palestinian resilience and culture, providing employment and serving as a cultural symbol in the face of ongoing conflict and hardship.

What is the Sun & Stone lager?

Sun & Stone lager is a collaborative beer produced by Taybeh Brewing Company and Brewgooder, with profits directed towards humanitarian aid for Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza.

How does the Israeli occupation impact daily life in Ramallah?

The Israeli occupation severely restricts movement, access to resources, and daily activities for Palestinians, leading to increased violence and intimidation from settlers in the region.