Aleppo – Wednesday, 30 April 2025 – The Syria Recovery Trust Fund (SRTF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) are pleased to announce the signing of their third financial agreement to launch a new project aimed at improving livestock farming, veterinary practices, and compost production in As-Sweida’s rural communities. The agreement was signed by SRTF Director General Eng. Hani Khabbaz and UNDP Resident Representative in Syria, Mr. Sudipto Mukerjee.
This collaboration is the third, with two other efforts being successfully implemented in the past four years. Two of these efforts are under the Agriculture sector and one under the Water/WASH sector. Past collborations have benefitted thousands of individuals directly, with thousands of community members indirectly.
This project will tackle key challenges in livestock management, veterinary practices, and compost production, ensuring long-term improvements in food security and livelihoods. The nine month implementation period, followed by a six-month monitoring and evaluation phase, will focus on two main components: capacity building for livestock management and veterinary practices and compost production and sustainable farming practices.
The initiative is expected to directly benefit 115 individuals, with an additional 250 indirect beneficiaries, particularly women, who now make up a significant portion of the livestock farming workforce due to the decline in the male workforce in recent years. With 40% of the beneficiaries being women, the project aligns with gender equality and women’s empowerment priorities.
UNDP Resident Representative in Syria, Mr. Sudipto Mukerjee, said: ”The UNDP is thrilled about yet another partnership with the SRTF. We value the Fund’s work across all sectors, especially in the Agriculture sector, as we believe it is a crucial one for Syrians in Syria. Supporting breeders in maintaining their livestock only improves their livelihoods and ensures sustainability. We remain committed to contributing to the Fund’s mission, and look forward to more partnerships together in the near future.”
On this occasion, Eng. Hani Khabbaz stated:
"We are proud of our continued coalboration with UNDP… we believe that strengthening local economies and promoting sustainable agricultural practices through this initiative will contribute to economic stability, environmental conservation, and social resilience. The project’s long-term impact will be ensured through skill development, market opportunities, and sustainable farming techniques that enhance self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on external support."
SRTF and UNDP reaffirm their commitment to supporting vulnerable communities in Syria through innovative and sustainable solutions that promote resilience, economic empowerment, and environmental sustainability.
