IFAD_AFESD_Improving food security and sustainable natural resources management through enhancing integrated agricultural production systems in the Arabian Peninsula_Annual Report_2015

Abstract

ICARDA’s Arabian Peninsula Regional Program (APRP) was launched in 1988 with a goal of developing the agricultural sector and conserving the natural resources and environment through scientific research and technology development. In addition, training and capacity building have received special attention within the APRP. The joint efforts by ICARDA and the National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS) of the Arabian Peninsula countries during the previous projects, resulted in six recommended technology packages that address the major constraints to increasing water use efficiency for the production of high quality cash crops and irrigated forages. The present project titled, “Improving food security and sustainable natural resources management through enhancing integrated agricultural production systems in the Arabian Peninsula” is funded by the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development (AFESD), and the International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD). It began in January 2014 and attempts to ensure the sustainability of APRP achievements and efficient technology packages transferred using the experience and knowledge, which has been accumulated and built up during the previous projects as well as introducing new technology packages to answer the region latest challenges and priorities. This project consists of three major components: 1. Introduction and Adoption of Technology Packages, 2. Problem‐solving Research and Impact Assessment, 3. Capacity Building and Institutional Strengthening. The present document highlights ICARDA and NARS joint activities and achievements during the period from January to December 2015.