U.S. Commits $12 Million to Foster Economic Growth in Lebanon

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U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Maura Connelly inaugurated the five-year, $12 million Developing Hydroponics to Access International Markets (DHAIM) program, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
The DHAIM program will help establish hydroponic production of high-value fruit, vegetables and flowers in Lebanon with the long-term goal of improving earnings and livelihoods of rural Lebanese producers in this sector.

The launch event included the signing of sub-agreements between ACDI/VOCA, the primary implementing partner, and seven local sub-partners for the implementation of DHAIM activities: Arcenciel, Hariri Foundation, Rene Moawad Foundation, Safadi Foundation, and the Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Sidon, Tripoli, and Zahle.

DHAIM uses a value chain approach to enhance Lebanon's greenhouse sector producing lettuce, capsicum, strawberry, tomato, cucumber, and floriculture.

It will target approximately 1000 greenhouse owner representing over one third of the greenhouse producers of these crops in Lebanon, and is expected to increase related exports by at least 50 percent.

DHAIM will partner with local organizations to increase access to markets, strengthen value chain linkages, increase access to credit, train smallholder greenhouse producers, and to improve post-harvest handling.

Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture will facilitate market intelligence and business development; NGOs and foundations will handle extension services and farmers' training. They will host demonstration centers and have master trainers in hydroponics technology.

Connelly said at the launch: "The farmers and producers who will participate in DHAIM represent the essence of the Lebanese entrepreneurial spirit."

"Their successes are all the more remarkable considering the government stagnation on much needed infrastructure and reform projects that has stifled the progress of these agricultural entrepreneurs and created unnecessary hurdles and difficulties on the path to prosperity…. We believe in the power of the competitive market place and the role of individual effort and innovation to spark growth -- DHAIM will help Lebanon make the most out of all of these," she added.

Beirut, 09 Mar 11, 16:16


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