Strenghtening the agricultural sector for food and nutrition security in Syria
In Syria, the ongoing conflict, worsening economic crisis and devastating earthquakes have severely impacted the agricultural sector. This contributes to challenges in ensuring food and nutrition security for many families. Years of instability have disrupted agricultural production, distribution channels, and market access, leading to shortages of essential food items. Additionally, the economic downturn has made it difficult for families to afford both food and non-food essentials. Following the earthquakes, the situation has been exacerbated, with increased demand for credit and financial services to cope with the aftermath. However, limitations in the agricultural supply chain, including struggling vendors and inadequate resources, hinder the availability of essential goods. High-demand items, particularly those relying on imports from neighboring countries like Türkiye, face additional challenges due to market shortages and price hikes. These barriers within the agricultural sector highlight the urgent need for interventions to strengthen food and nutrition security in Syria.
Together with the local organizations, Malteser International is supporting the livelihoods of farmers to strengthen the agricultural sector and ensure food and nutrition security in Syria.
Food security in Syria is threatened by a major disruption to crop and livestock production. This includes damage and loss to livestock, agricultural equipment, and infrastructure such as greenhouses, irrigation, storage facilities, as well as food and feed production facilities. The decrease in food production has led to households struggling to earn income and losing their purchasing power. Market access is challenging, with 7% of communities lacking access, and shortages of both food and non-food items are widespread. The growing demand for food, along with market dysfunction in multiple areas, exacerbates the food and nutrition security situation in northwest Syria.
The programme is targeted at farmers and residents affected by the earthquakes in the Jinderes area, north of Aleppo. There is an urgent need for interventions that enhance food and nutrition security and empower vulnerable communities through sustainable agricultural practices.
Our goal is to ensure food and nutrition security in Syria by supporting the livelihoods of farmers and herders and strengthening their resilience in the agricultural sector.
- Training courses on business development, business and financial management to help households set up small businesses and promote their independence.
- Provision of seed kits (wheat, barley) for farmers and compound feed for livestock farmers to bridge the feed shortage in winter - to promote self-reliance and alleviate hardship.
Country info
Capital: Damascus
Area: 185,180 km²
Population: approx. 23.23 million
Project data
Financing: Aktion Deutschland Hilft
Partner: Shafak
Duration: November 2024 - May 2025
