Support for Farmers in Moldova Amid Economic Challenges
Approximately 17,000 small farmers and household farms in the Republic of Moldova will receive concentrated feed for dairy cows, alfalfa seeds, corn, and fertilizers. The feed, valued at $915,000, will be purchased with funds allocated by Switzerland to assist Moldova in maintaining its cattle population in households affected by recent droughts, which have drastically reduced corn yields, the primary feed source for livestock.
The feed will be acquired as part of the project titled “Emergency Support for Agricultural Producers in the Context of Socio-Economic, Climate, and Energy Crises,” financed by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and implemented by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Switzerland has increased the project budget this year by $1.155 million, following a previous contribution of $2 million.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry (MAIA) states that by diversifying agricultural production and improving access to quality feed, farmers will be able to produce more healthy and nutritious food for personal consumption and sale. This initiative aims to reduce poverty and enhance living standards in rural areas.
Empowering Women in Agriculture
As part of the same project, eight women entrepreneurs in agriculture, affected by the socio-economic and energy crisis, will receive support to increase the energy efficiency of their agricultural operations with equipment and services valued at approximately $200,000.
Previously, 46 women-led enterprises benefited from similar support, which included the installation of photovoltaic panels, heat pumps, biomass boilers, and various energy efficiency measures within storage facilities and production spaces, according to MAIA.
Continuing Agricultural Education
Thanks to Switzerland’s budget increase, FAO will continue implementing field schools, which are effective tools for disseminating best agricultural practices among farmers. In addition to the existing 15 field schools, five new ones will be developed in the northern regions of Moldova, focusing on dairy cow production and the application of conservation agriculture practices in cereal crop production.
These schools will be equipped with five No-Till direct seeders for sustainable land preparation, which helps protect the environment and enhances farmers’ resilience to climate change. Large-capacity No-Till seeders will also be available to agricultural research institutions.
Improving Dairy Production
As part of the same project, 50 household farms trained within the field schools that produce and sell milk will receive equipment. These farms will be equipped with milking machines to improve milking hygiene, enhance milk quality, and ease working conditions.
Sheep and goat farmers will also benefit from modern equipment, such as electric fences and milking machines, aimed at improving animal husbandry practices and increasing the quality of dairy products, thus contributing to the sustainable development of the sector. FAO aims to strengthen the micro-cluster of sheep and goat farmers in the Cimișlia and Basarabeasca regions, previously established to enhance collaboration and resource sharing among local producers.
Joint Initiative by UNDP and Switzerland
An innovative collaboration between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Switzerland has been launched with the aim of addressing pressing global challenges. This joint initiative focuses on sustainable development, promoting social equity, and enhancing environmental protection across various regions.
The partnership seeks to leverage the strengths of both organizations to create impactful solutions that benefit communities and bolster resilience against climate change. By combining resources and expertise, the initiative aims to implement projects that not only foster economic growth but also ensure that marginalized populations have access to essential services and opportunities.
Through this collaboration, UNDP and Switzerland are committed to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and supporting countries in their efforts to achieve these targets. The initiative highlights the importance of international cooperation in tackling complex issues that transcend borders.
This endeavor reinforces the belief that collective action is crucial in building a sustainable future and creating a world where everyone can thrive. The synergy between UNDP and Switzerland represents a significant step forward in promoting global development and addressing inequalities.
