FAO and Japan launch project to build adaptive drought interventions in agriculture in Jordan

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Jordan, with funding from the Government of Japan and in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), launched a new project to address the growing challenges of drought, water scarcity, and climate change affecting Jordan’s agricultural sector.

The project, titled “From Scarcity to Sustainability: Building Adaptive Drought Interventions in Agriculture - Climate Adaptation and Drought-Resilient Jordan,” will promote agroecological approaches and demonstrate climate-smart practices in drought-prone and refugee-hosting communities in northern Jordan. The launch workshop was held under the patronage of H.E. the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Saeb Khreisat and attended by H.E. ASARI Hideki, Ambassador of Japan to Jordan.

The project targets approximately 380 direct beneficiaries, including smallholder farmers from refugee and host communities, women-led cooperatives, and Ministry staff across the governorates of Ajloun and Jerash, and the North Jordan Valley. Implementation will be carried out in close collaboration with the National Agricultural Research Center (NARC).

Key activities include distributing agricultural inputs, establishing climate-smart demonstration sites, and strengthening institutional capacities for drought preparedness and water management.

H.E. Ambassador ASARI highlighted Japan’s commitment to supporting climate resilience, stating; “Aligning with Japan’s development cooperation policy for Jordan, we hope that this project provides a timely intervention that assists Jordan in addressing the acute impact of drought at the institutional and community levels, while also creating livelihood opportunities in vulnerable areas. Thus, supporting Jordan’s efforts in achieving sustainable economic growth.”

On behalf of the Minister of Agriculture, Eng. Khalil Amr, added: "Drought-related challenges transcend national borders, necessitating strengthened collective action, the exchange of knowledge and expertise, technology transfer, expanded climate finance, and investment in scientific research and innovation. It also requires building effective partnerships among governments, international organizations, the private sector, and local communities to achieve agricultural and food systems that are more efficient, resilient, and sustainable."

Paul Opio, FAO Representative a.i in Jordan, emphasized that; “By promoting agroecological and climate-smart practices in some of the country's most vulnerable hotspot areas, we are investing in both immediate adaptation needs and long-term resilience. Building drought-resilient agricultural systems is essential for food security and economic stability.”

The initiative directly contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).