MA’AN Development Center, with the support of HEKS/EPER, has concluded the project "Strengthening Resilience to Empower Local Communities in the Southwest of Bethlehem Governorate" as part of the Protection and Natural Resources Program. The project aims to support farmers in accessing their lands, enhancing their ability to secure water, and protecting lands from settlement expansion. Beneficiaries of the project included farmers from the areas of Al-Khader, Wadi Fukin, and Beit Skaria.
The project encompassed various significant developmental interventions to improve agricultural and environmental conditions in the targeted areas. In Beit Skaria, ten dunums of agricultural land were rehabilitated, benefiting six families. In Al-Khader, sixteen dunums of grapevines were rehabilitated, supporting ten families and contributing to increased agricultural production and improved living standards for the beneficiaries.
Regarding water resources, the project rehabilitated two springs and three water collection ponds, in addition to distributing water collection balloons with a capacity of 25 cubic meters each in Al-Khader and Wadi Fukin.
Moreover, four kiwi farming units were planted over an area of two dunums, benefiting four families in Wadi Fukin.
Additionally, 43 farmers received extensive training to enhance their agricultural skills, including land preparation, plowing techniques, and identification and treatment of agricultural diseases. The training also included organic farming practices and marketing skills, focusing on tools, methods, and understanding market needs.