MA’AN Development Center, supported by HEKS/EPER, successfully completed the project “Enhancing Resilience to Empower Local Communities in Southwest Bethlehem Governorate” as part of the Natural Resources and Protection Program. The project aimed to support farmers in accessing their lands, improving their ability to access water, and protecting lands from settlement expansion. Farmers from Al-Khader, Wadi Fukin, and Beit Skaria benefited from the project.

The project included several significant developmental activities that improved agricultural and environmental conditions in the targeted areas. In Beit Skaria, 10 dunums of agricultural land were rehabilitated, benefiting six families. Meanwhile, in Al-Khader, 16 dunums of grapevines were rehabilitated, helping 10 families to enhance agricultural production and improve their living conditions.

To improve water access, the project rehabilitated two springs and three water collection ponds. Additionally, water collection balloons with a capacity of 25 cubic meters were distributed in Al-Khader and Wadi Fukin.

The project also involved planting four kiwi units on a total area of two dunums, benefiting four families in Wadi Fukin.

Moreover, 43 farmers received intensive training to enhance their agricultural skills. They learned how to prepare land for farming and plowing, identify plant diseases and treat them, and apply organic farming methods. The training also included marketing skills, focusing on the tools and methods for effective marketing and understanding market needs.

This project highlights the importance of supporting Palestinian farmers in overcoming environmental and political challenges, promoting sustainable development, and enhancing food security and natural resource protection.