Beirut: The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Municipality of Anjar, and supported by funding from the Government of the Republic of Korea, celebrated the successful completion of the project "Enhancing the Resilience of Refugees and Host Communities" with a field visit to Anjar, located in the Bekaa region.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the project implemented by FAO and the Ministry of Agriculture aimed to improve livelihoods, promote environmental sustainability, and enhance local disaster preparedness. The field visit was attended by several dignitaries, including H.E. Gyusuk Geon, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Lebanon; Mrs. Nora Ourabah Haddad, FAO Representative in Lebanon; and Mr. Setrag Havatian, Mayor of Anjar, among others. The delegation observed the project's positive impact on local communities and the support extended to the Municipality of Anjar.
During the visit, the delegation inspected the Multi-Hazard Response Unit, a municipal truck equipped for flood and fire emergencies, and toured the solar-powered water pumping system, which includes an electrical control room and water pump funded by the Government of the Republic of Korea. The project also provided Anjar Municipality with crucial tools and awareness programmes to prevent wildfires and mitigate flood risks, enhancing the community's resilience to environmental challenges.
Ambassador Gyusuk Geon highlighted Korea's commitment to empowering communities by promoting environmental protection and inclusive development. He noted the collaboration between refugees and host communities as an essential aspect of the initiative.
Nora Ourabah Haddad, FAO Representative in Lebanon, emphasized that the project demonstrates the impact of international cooperation and local engagement in improving vulnerable communities' lives through targeted employment and environmental initiatives.
Khalil Akl, Head of the Service of Agriculture in the Bekaa Region, expressed that the project serves as a model for future collaborations, focusing on resilience, sustainability, and community empowerment, with the Ministry's commitment to enhancing rural development across Lebanon.
Mayor Setrak Havatian expressed gratitude for the continuous support and dedication from the Ambassador, FAO, and the Ministry of Agriculture representatives, contributing to the project's success in Anjar.
A key component of the initiative was a Cash-for-Work programme, offering temporary employment to 300 refugees and host community members. Participants received training in landscape restoration, afforestation, and land maintenance, engaging in activities such as creating firebreaks and implementing climate-smart agricultural practices.
Moreover, the project delivered training sessions on Climate-Smart Agriculture, Natural Hazard Prevention and Management, and Grassroots Cooperatives Development, equipping communities with sustainable skills for long-term resilience.