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Rural areas development in Syria 2025: The role of sustainable agriculture in reconstruction
[Image: A panoramic image of beautiful Syrian rural landscapes, showing green farms]Syria suffers from the effects of a devastating war, and this war has left its clear imprints on the agricultural sector, which is a basic pillar of the national economy. However, reconstruction requires a comprehensive approach, based on sustainable rural development, especially on the role of sustainable agriculture in achieving this goal. This article will address the role of sustainable agriculture in developing rural areas by 2025, focusing on supporting farmers and promoting agriculture in Syria.
The Importance of Sustainable Agriculture in Rebuilding Syria
Sustainable agriculture is the basic pillar for ensuring food security and economic development in Syria. It is not limited to increasing production only, but also includes preserving natural resources, enhancing the ability to withstand climate change, and creating sustainable job opportunities in rural areas. [Image: Image of a Syrian farm using modern and sustainable agricultural techniques]
Challenges Facing Agriculture in Syria
- Lack of funding and investment in the agricultural sector.
- Deterioration of agricultural infrastructure (dams, irrigation canals).
- Water scarcity and the effects of climate change.
- Insecurity and lack of stability in some areas.
- Migration of agricultural workers.
The Role of Supporting Farmers in Achieving Sustainable Agriculture
Supporting farmers is of paramount importance to achieving the goals of sustainable agriculture in Syria. This support includes providing training and technical advice, providing easy financing, securing access to markets, and providing high-quality seeds and fertilizers. [Video: A short video showing successful experiences of supporting farmers in Syria]
Practical Examples of Supporting Farmers:
- Providing training programs on sustainable agriculture, including modern irrigation techniques, soil management, and pest control.
- Providing soft loans to farmers to purchase equipment and agricultural inputs.
- Establishing agricultural cooperatives to enhance the ability to negotiate with buyers and improve marketing.
- Providing agricultural insurance to protect farmers from risks.
Comprehensive Rural Development: Agriculture as a Major Axis
Rural development is not limited to agriculture only, but also includes developing infrastructure (roads, electricity, water), health and educational services, and promoting job opportunities in non-agricultural sectors. But agriculture remains the main driver of economic growth in rural areas, and contributes significantly to reconstruction.
A study conducted by Afaq Al-Aqar Academy, in cooperation with agricultural experts, affirmed the importance of integrating sustainable urban planning with rural development projects. The study indicated that developing infrastructure in rural areas contributes to attracting investments and improving the living standards of the population. {Link: Link to Afaq Al-Aqar Academy study}
[Image: A chart showing the relationship between rural development and economic growth]The Role of Local Development in Developing Rural Areas
Local development plays a crucial role in developing rural areas. It depends on the participation of local communities in identifying their needs and developing their own development plans. Local development includes empowering women and youth, promoting good governance, and promoting cooperation between the public and private sectors.
Examples of Successful Local Development:
- Small irrigation projects managed by local communities.
- Rural tourism projects that contribute to creating job opportunities.
- Infrastructure improvement projects implemented with the participation of the local community.
Proposed Action Plan for Developing Rural Areas in Syria by 2025
| Phase | Objectives | Strategies |
|---|---|---|
| First Phase (2023-2024): | Rehabilitate agricultural infrastructure and provide direct support to farmers | Provide soft loans, train farmers on modern farming methods, provide improved seeds |
| Second Phase (2024-2025): | Diversify sources of income in rural areas and promote local development | Develop rural tourism projects, support small and medium enterprises, encourage agricultural cooperatives |
The success of this plan depends on providing sufficient funding, political will, and effective partnership between the government, international organizations, and the private sector. Also, the role of supporting farmers is not limited to material assistance, but also includes providing the necessary technical and advisory support. [Image: Image showing a meeting between government officials and farmers]
"Reconstruction in Syria cannot be achieved without paying attention to sustainable agriculture and rural development. Agriculture is the engine of economic growth and food security" – Agricultural expert from Afaq Al-Aqar Academy
Afaq Al-Aqar Academy provides its extensive experience in the field of real estate development and urban planning to support developing rural areas. The academy has conducted several studies on best practices in this field, and its experts have provided advice to many international and governmental organizations. {Link: Afaq Al-Aqar Academy website}
Call to Action: Are you interested in learning more about investment opportunities in the agricultural sector in Syria? Contact us today!