FAO seeks to accelerate the transformation of agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable as a mean to achieve the 2030 agenda.
What and how can CSOs contribute to such transformation to boost impact on the ground? Please suggest concrete actions.
Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have a crucial role to play in driving the transformation of agrifood systems in the MENA region, including Jordan, towards greater efficiency, inclusivity, resilience, and sustainability. Their partnership with organizations like the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and other stakeholders can have a substantial impact on the ground.
One avenue for CSOs to make a difference is by bolstering Farmer-Based Organizations (FBOs). By supporting the establishment and capacity building of these grassroots entities, CSOs can empower smallholder farmers. These efforts include providing FBOs with access to resources, training, and technology, thereby improving farming practices and enhancing their ability to adapt to climate change.
CSOs can also contribute to the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices in collaboration with local farmers and FAO. Initiatives such as advocating for organic farming, crop rotation, and agroecology can be advanced through training sessions and workshops. These educational efforts help farmers adopt more sustainable and climate-smart techniques.
Addressing food security is another vital role for CSOs. Collaborating with FAO, CSOs can implement projects aimed at improving food security and reducing food waste within the MENA region. CSOs can also advocate for policies that ensure equitable access to nutritious food, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Gender inclusion is a critical aspect of agrifood system transformation. CSOs can champion gender-inclusive policies and practices, ensuring that women have equal access to resources, training, and decision-making opportunities. These efforts extend to supporting women's participation in agriculture and entrepreneurship through tailored training and capacity-building programs.
To build resilience against climate change, CSOs can partner with FAO to implement climate-resilient farming practices, facilitating communities' adaptation to changing climatic conditions. These collaborations also involve raising awareness about the significance of climate-smart agriculture and sustainable water management.
Access to finance is often a bottleneck for small-scale farmers and agribusinesses. CSOs can assist in bridging this gap by helping these stakeholders access financial resources, including microloans and grants, which can be invested in improving operations and productivity. Establishing partnerships with financial institutions to develop customized financial products for the agrifood sector is another fruitful avenue for CSOs.
Data and research are essential to informed decision-making. CSOs can undertake research and data collection to identify key challenges and opportunities within the MENA region's agrifood sector. By sharing research findings with FAO and other stakeholders, CSOs can contribute to evidence-based policies and programs.
CSOs can also serve as advocates for policies that promote sustainability and inclusivity within agrifood systems at local, national, and regional levels. Engaging in dialogues with government authorities helps influence policy decisions to align them with the 2030 Agenda.
Education and training are fundamental to capacity building. CSOs can offer training and extension services to farmers and rural communities, covering topics such as improved crop management, post-harvest handling, and marketing skills. Additionally, fostering knowledge-sharing networks among farmers enables the exchange of best practices.
Collaboration is at the heart of transformation. CSOs can partner with other CSOs, government agencies, international organizations, and private sector stakeholders to leverage resources and expertise. Facilitating multi-stakeholder dialogues and partnerships promotes integrated approaches to agrifood system transformation.
To ensure the effectiveness of their initiatives, CSOs must establish mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating their impact, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement.
Lastly, CSOs can engage with young people to promote their involvement in agriculture and entrepreneurship. Supporting youth-led initiatives and providing mentorship and training opportunities contribute to building a sustainable future for agrifood systems.
In sum, through these concrete actions, CSOs can collaborate with FAO and other stakeholders to accelerate the transformation of agrifood systems in the MENA region. This collaborative effort aims to make these systems more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable, ultimately contributing significantly to achieving the 2030 Agenda and reducing socio-economic inequality.
Ms. Tala KHRAIS