Launching the ‘Qualitative Technologies for Agricultural Development’ (Qatra) project

JERICHO - Ma'an - Today in Jericho, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Jericho Mayor Abdul Karim Sidr, and local farmers launched the 'Qualitative Technologies for Agricultural Development' (Qatara) project by signing 20 new joint investment agreements. These investments total $1.3 million and will provide farmers in the West Bank with water-saving irrigation equipment to improve water efficiency and increase resilience. The joint investment agreements will help about 300 farmers from the Jericho and Tubas governorates adopt water-saving technologies, including low-flow drippers, automated irrigation systems, and pond lining. The activity will also provide electromagnetic ionizers and sand filters to improve the quality of irrigation water. The agricultural sector consumes more than half of the West Bank's limited freshwater resources, and to increase agricultural water productivity and reduce pressure on groundwater, agricultural practices, particularly irrigation, must be impr oved and modernized. USAID's Qatra activity will focus on enhancing water efficiency and productivity, supporting agricultural resilience, and improving water and food security. Qatra is a four-year, $36 million USAID-funded activity that aims to improve water efficiency and support climate-resilient agriculture. Qatra will increase farmers' access to advanced irrigation technologies that enhance water conservation, such as low-flow drip systems, with the goal of reducing water use by 4 million cubic meters in the West Bank and Gaza. Through targeted training, Qatra will enable farmers to adopt water conservation practices and improve the management of freshwater resources and associated ecosystems by eliminating the use of chemicals and fertilizers. The Mayor of Jericho, Abdul Karim Sidr, emphasized the importance of this activity and stressed that the need to improve water use and conserve resources is more important than ever. 'The Qatra project will ultimately provide advanced technologies, technical as sistance and training to 11,500 Palestinian farmers. The activity will ensure inclusiveness by providing opportunities for men, women, youth and people with disabilities alike. By collaborating with local and international partners, the Qatra project aims to maximize its impact and ensure the efficient use of resources for the benefit of farmers and their communities,' said Jean-François Gay, Qatra project manager. USAID and the Qatra Project remain committed to advancing development goals and supporting communities in the West Bank and Gaza. The signing of these agreements underscores our continued commitment to building resilience, improving livelihoods, and economic growth in the face of current challenges. About USAID: USAID is the lead U.S. government agency working to end extreme global poverty and enable resilient, democratic societies to realize their potential. In the West Bank and Gaza, USAID assistance aims to increase stability and improve the lives of Palestinians by working within communities to increase economic opportunity and access to basic services, promote good governance, empower youth, and provide humanitarian relief. Source: Maan News Agency