News in Brief:
– IFAD and Somalia collaborate on a $31.22 million Rural Livelihood Resilience Programme to boost food security and rural resilience.
– The initiative targets enhancing agricultural productivity, climate resilience, and inclusivity, particularly benefiting vulnerable groups like women and youth.
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has joined hands with the Government of Somalia to initiate the Rural Livelihood Resilience Programme (RLRP) to bolster Somalia’s rural resilience and food security.
This innovative programme, valued at $31.22 million, stands as IFAD’s premier direct investment in Somalia, marking a pivotal step forward following the country’s settlement of arrears with the fund.
Somalia has long grappled with the enduring aftermath of conflict, environmental degradation, and inadequate infrastructure, significantly impacting agricultural productivity. With the RLRP, IFAD aims to tackle these multifaceted challenges head-on, with a keen focus on improving the lives of rural smallholders.
At the heart of the programme lies a commitment to empowering local farmers by enhancing their productivity, incomes, and nutritional security in a sustainable manner. The programme’s comprehensive approach encompasses a range of interventions, from upgrading farming techniques to facilitating market access and offering crucial financial support along agricultural value chains.
Recognising the escalating threats posed by climate change, the inititaive prioritises climate resilience in its strategies. By investing in community-based water infrastructure and promoting climate-smart agricultural practices, the programme aims to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate variability on agricultural livelihoods.
Amidst Somalia’s complex socio-economic landscape, the programme places a special emphasis on uplifting the most vulnerable segments of society, including women and youth. Through targeted training initiatives and capacity-building efforts, it seeks to foster inclusivity and resilience within local communities.
The successful clearance of Somalia’s arrears with IFAD opens up new avenues for economic growth and development. With access to crucial resources and funding, Somalia is poised to embark on a trajectory of resilience and prosperity, bolstered by strategic partnerships and international support.
