RAFIF ESLEEM

Gaza- The Forum for Women’s Pioneers of Urban Agriculture in the Gaza Strip supports women to achieve their economic independence. The forum founded three years ago has supported many women living in rural areas. Zainab Abed, coordinator of the Forum for Women Pioneers of Urban Agriculture in Gaza, told us that 250 women have earned a living by starting their own business with the support of the forum.

 “These women in different age groups have started their own business. Despite the siege affecting agricultural projects, the forum provides support to women in order to overcome the problems faced by them. The forum aims to teach women how to develop their projects and to become socially empowered,” Zainab Abed told NuJINHA.

 The forum works coordinately with the Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture. Zainab Abed said, “Thanks to our agreements with the ministry, 120 projects have been approved. Women owners of these projects can promote their agricultural products in the Palestinian markets.”

‘2,000 women have participated in the labor force’

Speaking about the mechanism and criteria for joining the forum, Zainab Abed said, “Women must improve their tools and skills to move forward. Then, they should prove that they can carry out their projects. After discussions, we decide which project we should fund with the support of the ministry and NGOs. Our main target group is the marginalized women. This year, about 2,000 women have participated in the labor force thanks to these projects.”

‘All women should develop their own projects’

Reem Arhim started her own project called “Rabbit farm” in 2020 with the support of the forum. “After I saw an advertisement on social media, I decided to apply to the forum. I attended many meetings and courses before putting my project into practice.”

One of the most important obstacles that Reem Arhaim faces is climate change and a significant increase or decrease in temperatures, which cause the death of rabbits. She calls on all women to develop their own projects in order to achieve their economic independence. “I am planning to expand my farm because I want to share my experiences with other women.”