Latest news with #ruralDevelopment
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Saudi's SFD signs deal worth over $38mln to enhance infrastructure in Tunisia
TUNIS — Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) Chief Executive Officer Sultan Al-Marshad signed on Saturday a new development loan agreement with Tunisian Minister of Economy and Planning Dr. Samir Abdelhafidh to finance the establishment of an Oasis Hub Project in southern Tunisia. The loan, exceeding $38 million, was signed in the presence of Saudi Ambassador to Tunisia Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Saqr. The agreement reflects the strong bilateral development partnership that has spanned nearly 50 years. The Oasis Hub Project aims to support sustainable rural development through the reclamation of more than 1,000 hectares of agricultural land across various regions of Tunisia. The project includes the drilling and equipping of 22 wells, the expansion of rural villages and their infrastructure, and the construction of over 285 housing units for local beneficiaries. Additionally, the project will enhance the region's infrastructure by building roads, pipelines, and networks for potable and irrigation water, while also supporting the development of educational institutions, agricultural facilities, and cultural, social, and commercial centers. These efforts collectively aim to improve the quality of life and stimulate economic and social growth in Tunisia's southern governorates. The agreement is part of SFD's ongoing efforts to promote sustainable development in Tunisia by financing infrastructure projects that contribute to improving living standards, creating job opportunities, and supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Since it began operations in Tunisia in 1975, SFD has financed 32 development projects and programs through concessional loans totaling more than $1.2 billion, in addition to grants provided by Saudi Arabia through SFD, amounting to over $105 million. Meanwhile, Tunisian Prime Minister Sarra Zaafrani Zenzri received Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) Chief Executive Officer Sultan Al-Marshad in Tunis on Saturday. The reception was also attended by Tunisian Minister of Economy and Planning Samir Abdelhafidh, Saudi Ambassador to Tunisia Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Saqr, and other officials. Zenzri and Al-Marshad reviewed ways to strengthen development cooperation between the two countries and highlighted the longstanding bilateral partnership that spans over five decades, particularly in financing key development projects in Tunisia. Al-Marshad also met with Tunisian Minister of Health Dr. Mustapha Ferjani in the presence of the Saudi ambassador. They discussed ongoing health projects funded by SFD and explored opportunities to support the Tunisian health sector. The meetings come as part of Al-Marshad's official visit to Tunisia, during which a development loan agreement worth over $38 million is scheduled to be signed with the Tunisian Ministry of Economy and Planning to support infrastructure projects in the country. © Copyright 2022 The Saudi Gazette. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Saudi Fund for Development signs development loan agreement to enhance infrastructure sector in Tunisia
Tunisia: The Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), H.E. Sultan Al-Marshad, signed today a new development loan agreement with H.E. Dr. Samir Abdelhafidh, Minister of Economy and Planning of the Republic of Tunisia, to finance the establishment of an Oasis Hub Project in southern Tunisia. The loan, exceeding USD 38 million, was signed in the presence of H.E. Dr. Abdulaziz bin Ali Al-Saqr, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Tunisia. This agreement reflects the strong development partnership that has spanned nearly 50 years between the two sides. The Oasis Hub Project aims to support sustainable rural development through the reclamation of more than 1,000 hectares of agricultural land across various regions in Tunisia. The project includes the drilling and equipping of 22 wells, the expansion of rural villages and their infrastructure, and the construction of over 285 housing units for local beneficiaries. Additionally, the project will enhance the region's infrastructure by building roads, pipelines, and networks for potable and irrigation water, while also supporting the development of educational institutions, agricultural facilities, and cultural, social, and commercial centers. These efforts collectively aim to improve the quality of life and stimulate economic and social growth in Tunisia's southern governorates. This agreement is part of SFD's ongoing efforts to promote sustainable development in Tunisia by financing infrastructure projects that contribute to improving living standards, creating job opportunities, and supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Since the inception of its operations in Tunisia in 1975, SFD has financed 32 development projects and programs, through concessional loans totaling more than USD 1.2 billion, in addition to grants provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through SFD amounting to over USD 105 million.
Zawya
24-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Digging into the past to grow tomorrow: How young people are reshaping South Africa's agri sector?
Youth investment in agriculture is critical to ensuring South Africa's food security and long-term resilience. Although young people aged 18 to 34 make up over a third of the South African population, the average age of a farmer in South Africa is 62 years old (Sihlobo, 2017). This means that currently, young people are largely underrepresented in the agricultural sector, and given how key this demographic is to the transformation of it, this poses a serious risk. Diale Tilo, Executive Director, Kgodiso Development Fund. Despite growing urgency, agriculture continues to be overlooked by young people. Many still view farming as outdated, unskilled, and labour-intensive, an image that fails to reflect the sector's evolving realities. Barriers such as limited access to land, funding, training, and mentorship also contribute to this disconnect. As a result, many young people turn to urban employment, unaware that farming can be a viable and rewarding career path when supported by the right resources, networks, and knowledge. The Kgodiso Development Fund was founded by PepsiCo South Africa in 2020 with the strategic priority to address these exact barriers, by supporting youth participation, rural economic development and inclusive growth within our country's agricultural sector. The young farmers that KDF has funded thus far have brought innovation, sustainability, and fresh energy with them. Their involvement promises to spark economic development, create jobs, and promises to lead to the introduction of modern, climate-smart farming practices. A new generation on the land: Simphiwe Mabuza's story At just 31 years old, Simphiwe Mabuza is a shining example of how the youth can lead the way in agriculture and represents the next generation of black commercial farmers. Based in Breyton, Mpumalanga, Mabuza runs operations at his father's farm, Lisise Farming, a 553-hectare grain operation. With the support of the Kgodiso Development Fund and Standard Bank, the farm secured R4.4m in funding to grow its business. For Mabuza, farming is about more than producing crops - it's about redefining what it means to be a young, black farmer in a historically exclusive industry. It's about legacy, breaking barriers, and expanding opportunities for future generations. His love for farming began during school holidays, particularly Christmas breaks spent at his grandmother's house, where his father would gather the grandchildren at dawn to spread fertiliser using small buckets. "For my father, farming wasn't just work, it was a way of life," Mabuza reflects. With a diploma in Operations Management, he transitioned from metropolitan life to the fields, determined to bring his skills back to the land. "It was a hard but necessary shift. This farm is part of my family's legacy," he says. "Many of my peers who've seen me running the farm have come to realise that, while it's demanding, it's far from impossible. You just have to start and seize the opportunities that come your way." With nine years of hands-on production experience and four seasons of independently managed operations, Mabuza has shown impressive growth, technical competence and business acumen. His operations stimulate local economic development and food security through grain production and transformation within the agricultural value chain. Mabuza is not only scaling his operations but is also becoming a role model in his community, leveraging mentorship from his father and sharing knowledge with peers, multiplying the developmental impact of this funding. Importantly, farming is not just about innovation; it's also about preserving heritage. It's about blending traditional wisdom with modern techniques to create more sustainable, effective systems. This dual approach can only be driven by a generation that values both past and future. Mabuza is committed not only to farming but also to uplifting the community around him. Lisise Farming partners with local service providers, from veterinary care to equipment maintenance, ensuring that the local economy benefits from its operations. Farm workers regularly receive 50kg bags of mealie meal to support their families, and meat from livestock is shared as part of an ongoing tradition. The farm also donates mealie meal regularly to the local church. This kind of community-rooted agriculture fosters resilience, combats malnutrition, reduces reliance on imports, and strengthens local food systems. 'It's about contributing to food security in this nation,' Mabuza explains. 'But it all starts here, with our community. No one is coming to save us - we are our liberators. It's more than farming. It's about self-sufficiency for ourselves, our families, and our country.' The future is growing With youth unemployment a pressing issue, agriculture stands out as a career that not only sustains life but also offers economic transformation, especially in a market like South Africa. Globally, agriculture contributes over 25% to the GDP of many developing countries. Engaging youth can supercharge this impact by introducing technology, new energy, and modern solutions. Young people are well-positioned to integrate advancements such as AI, drone tech, and remote sensing into traditional practices, elevating the entire industry. Farming, when reimagined and restructured, can unlock economic freedom, social equity, and environmental sustainability. Farming is about more than just growing food; it's about shaping a future that works for everyone - economically, socially, and environmentally. Youth are not just the future of farming; they are the now. With access to land, resources, and knowledge, they can radically transform both their communities and the broader agricultural landscape of South Africa. It's time to invest in the next generation of growers and, in doing so, invest in the prosperity of the nation.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Green 2000 and PRODAC Transform Local Farming Communities Across Senegal
KFAR-VITKIN, ISRAEL / / June 12, 2025 / Across Senegal, a remarkable transformation is taking place-one that is breathing new life into rural communities, empowering young farmers, and turning once underutilized land into engines of productivity. This change is being driven by a strategic partnership between PRODAC (Programme des Domaines Agricoles Communautaires) and the Israeli agricultural development company Green 2000. Together, they are redefining what it means to farm in the 21st century. PRODAC: A Vision Rooted in People and the Land The PRODAC initiative was born out of the Senegalese government's commitment to addressing three pressing national challenges: rising youth unemployment, underdeveloped rural economies, and dependence on food imports. Senegal, like many nations in the Sahel, is rich in arable land and cultural agricultural knowledge. Yet decades of underinvestment in infrastructure, training, and rural development left much of the country's potential untapped. PRODAC's approach was bold and comprehensive. Instead of trying to solve each issue in isolation, the program sought to create community agricultural domains (DACs)-multi-purpose hubs designed to combine modern farming, vocational training, infrastructure development, and youth entrepreneurship. These DACs would not only cultivate crops but also cultivate hope. Each site would serve hundreds of local participants, particularly young people from nearby villages and towns, offering them the opportunity to: Receive hands-on agricultural training Use modern farming tools and greenhouses Cultivate their own plots of land Access storage and processing infrastructure Connect with markets to sell their produce From Village to Value Chain: A New Local Economy Emerges The impact of the PRODAC-Green 2000 partnership is perhaps most visible in the communities surrounding the DACs. These areas have witnessed a surge in economic activity, social mobility, and local pride. In places like Kaolack, Kolda, and Saint-Louis, young farmers are growing not only staple crops like millet and sorghum, but also higher-value vegetables, fruits, and herbs-many of which are sold in urban markets or used in school feeding programs. Participants report incomes that are double or triple what they were earning before joining the DACs. Credit: Green 2000 (Giora Perl) The Strategic Role of PRODAC in National Development What began as a development program is now becoming a strategic pillar of Senegal's economic planning. Government ministries-from Youth and Agriculture to Education and Industry-recognize the DACs not only as tools for food production but as platforms for integrated rural development. Key national outcomes tied to PRODAC include: Youth employment generation at scale Reduction in rural-urban migration through local opportunity creation Increased national food self-sufficiency through localized production Development of agro-industrial supply chains Improved gender equality, as women participate in every stage of production and leadership International observers, including the World Bank, FAO, and African Development Bank, have praised the program and identified it as a model for replication across West Africa. Other governments are now studying the PRODAC-Green 2000 framework as a template for scalable, locally driven agricultural reform. A Lasting Transformation from the Ground Up What makes the PRODAC and Green 2000 collaboration so powerful is not just its immediate impact-but its sustainability, replicability, and humanity. It's not just about hectares planted or tons harvested. It's about people who now see themselves as agents of change, capable of shaping their own futures. As one young participant in a Saint-Louis DAC put it:"I used to think I had to leave my village to find a life. Now, life has come back to the village because of this program." Senegal's rural future is no longer uncertain. Thanks to the joint efforts of PRODAC and Green 2000, it is growing-season by season, village by village, dream by dream. Contact : Contact Person Name: Refael DayanCity: Kfar-VitkinCountry: IsraelCompany: Green 2000- Agricultural Equipment & Know-How P.O. Box 572 Kfar-Vitkin 5710 Rd., 4020000 IsraelTel. ++972-77-2010710 | Fax.++972-77-2010711E-mail: greenltd@ SOURCE: Green 2000 View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire Sign in to access your portfolio
Malay Mail
11-06-2025
- General
- Malay Mail
Ungku Aziz and his Sarong Index — Suhaiza Hanim Datuk Mohamad Zailani
JUNE 11 — In Malaysia, the problem of poverty has been discussed and debated for a long time. Still, few people have approached it with the dedication and wisdom of the late Royal Professor Ungku Abdul Aziz. Ungku Aziz was well-known for his scholarly endeavours and profound concern for the well-being of the rural poor. His creative approaches gave Malaysia applicable and culturally appropriate means of comprehending economic inequality. His creation of the 'Sarong Index' is among the most noteworthy attempts to measure poverty, igniting discussions that are still relevant today. An inspiration for social transformation Ungku Aziz, also known as Ungku Abdul Aziz Ungku Abdul Hamid, was born in London in 1922 and studied in Malaysia. From the beginning, his adventure was extraordinary. After deciding to pursue an academic career, Ungku Aziz immediately gained recognition for his compassion and progressive viewpoints. He advocated for the economic advancement of Malaysians, paying special attention to the rural populace, who comprised a large portion of the country's population in the early years of independence. In addition to being respected as an academic, he was a social reform pioneer whose influence lasted long after his death in December 2020. In addition to studying textbook economics, Ungku Aziz also examined the local and cultural markers that characterised Malaysian life to comprehend the extent of rural poverty. In Malaysian development economics, he became a legend because his work laid the groundwork for socio-economic policies that influenced government programmes and provided genuine insight into rural poverty. The Sarong Index: A creative metric Ungku Aziz's 'Sarong Index' is among his most famous works. On the surface, it appears pretty straightforward. The number of sarongs, a traditional Malaysian garment frequently worn in rural families, in a family is divided by the number of household members to determine the Sarong Index. According to Ungku Aziz, the sarong was a concrete representation of material stability for rural people and an indication that went beyond simple income levels. This index was quite valuable, particularly since Malaysia lacked sophisticated measures for assessing poverty and a robust infrastructure for collecting data. According to Ungku Aziz, the quantity of sarongs in a home gauges the general well-being of Malaysians living in rural areas rather than just a measure of apparel. A basic degree of comfort and stability was indicated when households had enough sarongs, which signified they had money to spend on things other than food. On the other hand, the lack of several sarongs spoke to a lifestyle that failed to adhere to even the most fundamental cultural standards, suggesting a deprivation beyond mere material poverty. A basic degree of comfort and stability was indicated when households had enough sarongs, which signified they had money to spend on things other than food. — Picture by Yusof Mat Isa Transcending data: Cultural perspective on poverty The distinctive feature of Ungku Aziz's method was its consideration of cultural background. Given that the sarong is more than simply clothing, the Sarong Index captured the social subtleties of Malay living, whereas many other poverty indices are quantitative. When worn in the house, sarongs convey warmth, cosiness, and cultural identity. By examining sarongs, Ungku Aziz could quantify cultural values, self-respect, and dignity in ways that traditional economic indices could not. Since it reduced poverty to a straightforward yet relatable visual, this unusual indication struck a deep chord with decision-makers. It spoke to those who recognised the importance of the sarong in daily Malay living without using complicated economic terms. The capacity of Ungku Aziz to innovate in both economic theory and the real-world applications of social research was demonstrated by this method. Developing national initiatives to reduce poverty The Sarong Index may show Ungku Aziz's wider contributions to Malaysia's socio-economic policies. His efforts to reduce poverty greatly influenced Malaysia's development initiatives. The Second Malaysia Plan, a governmental blueprint containing goals for economic growth, better education, and rural development, was formulated in the 1960s, largely thanks to Ungku Aziz's views. Through the Sarong Index, Ungku Aziz emphasised the significance of comprehending rural poverty in a comprehensive and context-sensitive manner, arguing that national development initiatives need to consider the cultural context of the areas they were intended to assist. Additionally, his idea paved the way for rural co-operatives, which gave farmers in rural areas better economic possibilities, financial stability, and collective bargaining strength. Ungku Aziz tackled structural poverty by encouraging cooperatives, which made it possible for the impoverished in rural areas to engage in the country's economy more fully. Ungku Aziz's lasting influence The Sarong Index illustrates how Ungku Aziz's theories questioned conventional notions of poverty. He measured poverty by considering cultural significance, dignity, and quality of life in addition to economic data. Even today, the Sarong Index reminds us that poverty impacts every facet of human existence, not just a lack of money. In this regard, generations of economists and politicians have been motivated by Ungku Aziz's groundbreaking work to embrace cultural settings and think imaginatively about poverty. His theories, which strongly emphasised social cohesiveness and local identity as key components of sustainable development, were innovative for their time. As Malaysia continues to address poverty and injustice, Ungku Aziz's teachings serve as a reminder of the importance of careful, context-driven social policymaking. Future prospects: The Sarong Index's current significance Today, with Malaysia and other nations dealing with fast-changing socio-economic issues, the Sarong Index's guiding principles are still applicable. Given the growing cost of living, economic inequality, and the gap between rural and urban areas, Ungku Aziz's analysis of poverty still has relevance for modern policymaking. Using culturally relevant measures and locally relevant approaches, policymakers today may learn from Ungku Aziz's approach to effectively measuring and addressing poverty. Poverty is still closely linked to social conventions and cultural identity in rural communities, like those where Ungku Aziz spent his youth. Despite its symbolic nature, the Sarong Index promotes a comprehensive approach to well-being that considers cultural continuity and community belonging. Ungku Aziz's observations serve as a timely reminder of the significance of culturally sensitive development planning at a time when local customs are under danger from globalisation and quick economic change. Conclusion In addition to being an economist, Ungku Aziz was a humanitarian who valued human dignity in the struggle against poverty. His creation, the Sarong Index, offers a novel approach to gauging rural poverty while maintaining cultural sensitivity and demonstrates his profound knowledge of Malay society. Through the Sarong Index, Ungku Aziz provided Malaysia with a cutting-edge instrument to view and combat poverty, which is still applicable despite the difficulties of today. As Malaysia progresses, Ungku Aziz's work serves as a lighthouse, reminding politicians, economists, and social activists that the development road must honour the cultures and identities it aims to elevate. His legacy reminds us that reducing poverty concerns more than just statistics; it also concerns the community, humanity, and respect. * Datin Seri Prof Dr Suhaiza Hanim Datuk Mohamad Zailani is the Director of the Ungku Aziz Centre for Development Studies, Universiti Malaya. She may be reached at [email protected]. ** This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of Malay Mail.
