FAO launches climate resilience project in Jordan’s refugee camps

This picture shows a view of the Zaatari camp for Syrian refugees, near the Jordanian city of Mafraq, about 80km north of the capital Amman, on October 17, 2022. (File/AFP)
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  • Initiative aims to benefit 150 individuals from both refugee and local communities

AMMAN: The UN Food and Agriculture Organization, with funding from the Japanese government, has initiated a new project aimed at tackling climate change and natural resource challenges in northern Jordan, particularly in areas hosting refugees.

The project, titled “Emergency Response to Climate Change and Natural Resources Crises in Active Refugee Areas in Jordan,” was launched during a workshop conducted by the FAO in collaboration with Jordan’s Ministry of Agriculture on Monday.

The initiative, which aims to benefit 150 individuals from both refugee and local communities, will be implemented in the Zaatari camp for Syrian refugees and the regions of Ajloun and Jerash.

It focuses on disaster risk reduction and forest rehabilitation to foster stronger, more resilient communities.

Japanese Ambassador to Jordan Okuyama Jiro highlighted the importance of building community resilience through improved forest management, risk reduction efforts, and enhanced food security.

Mohammed Hiyari, secretary-general of the Ministry of Agriculture, showcased at the workshop the ministry’s commitment to climate adaptation through the implementation of smart agriculture projects.

FAO representative in Jordan Nabil Assaf said the initiative supports various sustainable development goals, including those related to food security, sustainable forest management, and biodiversity conservation.