Amman:Agriculture Minister Saeb Khraisat emphasized that investing in rural communities is the most sustainable form of investment. He stated that empowering women, youth, and smallholder producers with necessary tools, knowledge, and employment opportunities forms the foundation for creating a food system resilient to economic and climate challenges.
According to Jordan News Agency, Khraisat made these remarks while attending the closing ceremony of the project “Enhancing Food Security and Resilience for Host Communities and Syrian Refugees in Jordan Through Agricultural and Food Production Chains.”
The project, implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) with funding from the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, aimed to bolster food security and resilience. It supported 133 beneficiaries, including six community organizations in Ajloun, Balqa, and Jerash, by providing infrastructure support, training, business mentoring, and enhanced market access. The initiative focused on value chains for mushrooms, medicinal and aromatic plants, and honey.
FAO Representative in Jordan Thaer Yaseen highlighted the project’s success in demonstrating the positive impact of strong partnerships in supporting livelihoods and creating economic opportunities for rural communities. Italian Ambassador to Jordan Pier Zamporlini reiterated that the initiative is part of the extensive partnership between Italy and Jordan, underscoring Italy’s dedication to sustainable development and food security.
The ceremony was attended by FAO Deputy Director-General Beth Bechdol, Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for the Near East and North Africa AbdulHakim Elwaer, and Rein Paulsen, director of FAO’s Office of Emergencies and Resilience, along with various government representatives, development partners, cooperatives, and community organizations.
