A multi-component scheme that targets small-scale farmers in several parts of the Kingdom was launched on Tuesday.

In a country where the agriculture sector contributes to only 2.9 percent of the gross domestic product, the project aims to support the delivery of more efficient agricultural services and programmes, according to organisers.

Dubbed “Rural Economic Growth and Employment,” the project is implemented by the Jordan Enterprise Development Corporation (JEDCO) with the support of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

The Jerash, Ajloun, Madaba, Balqa and Mafraq governorates are the target of the six-year project, which will also include extending loans of between JD2,000 ($2,823) to JD50,000 ($70,582), to farmers through the Development and Employment Fund.

Under the scheme, IFAD will extend around $11 million in a soft loan, including $500,000 as a grant, while the government will cover expenses related to taxes, estimated to reach $1.4 million.

In addition, the project entails establishing a special unit at JEDCO to develop the agricultural ventures implemented under the programme in cooperation with the National Centre for Agricultural Research and Extension.

The unit will also help the Jordan Exporters and Producers Association for Fruits and Vegetables promote the produce of the farmers involved in the project and partner with the Jordan Institution for Standards and Metrology to issue certificates such as the ISO to the produce.

Source - http://www.freshplaza.com