As part of its efforts to strengthen food security and support sustainable livelihoods, Dan Relief and
Development Organization has launched a specialized activity aimed at supporting vegetable farmers through the expansion of off-season cultivation using greenhouses. This intervention directly responds to the challenges faced by local communities in Raqqa Governorate, where markets suffer from supply gaps during the winter season, leading to rising prices and unstable availability of fresh produce.
Importance of the Activity
Improving agricultural production: By introducing climate-smart farming techniques that enable continuous production beyond the traditional season.
Enhancing local food security: By bridging gaps in the availability of fresh vegetables and ensuring stable access for consumers.
Supporting the local economy: By enabling farmers to increase their income and strengthen their competitiveness in markets.
Transferring modern agricultural knowledge: Through training and extension services, enhancing farmers’ capacity to manage sustainable collective projects.
Scope and Areas of Implementation
The activity was implemented in three targeted villages within Raqqa Governorate:
Al-Hamam Village: Installation of 4 greenhouses benefiting 16 vegetable farmers.
Abu Jadi Village: Installation of 4 greenhouses benefiting 16 vegetable farmers.
Al-Bayda Village: Installation of 1 greenhouse benefiting 4 vegetable farmers.
Site selection was based on precise technical criteria, including proximity to main roads, availability of permanent water sources, and stable energy supply, to ensure success and sustainability.
Target Groups and Organizational Mechanism
The activity targeted nine agricultural groups, each consisting of four families, with clear distribution of roles among landowners, agricultural experts, and farm workers. This organization enhanced clarity of responsibilities and improved collective operational efficiency, ensuring continuity and tangible results.
Technical Intervention and Agricultural Inputs
Dan Organization completed the installation of greenhouses according to approved technical standards, including metal structures, nylon covering, and drip irrigation systems. Essential agricultural inputs were distributed, such as cucumber seeds, fertilizers, growth stimulants, agricultural mulch, peat, and tools for measuring temperature and humidity, ensuring a fully integrated start to the farming season.
Capacity Building and Agricultural Extension
Field schools were established for farmers in each targeted area, based on hands-on practical learning. Training sessions focused on greenhouse management, irrigation and fertilization scheduling, crop growth monitoring, and addressing agricultural challenges. Continuous technical guidance was provided through field visits and direct discussions with farmers, strengthening their practical skills and technical expertise.
Expected Results and Significance
Increased off-season vegetable production, helping to bridge food gaps.
Improved stability of local markets and reduced seasonal price pressures.
Enhanced farmers’ skills in using modern techniques and managing collective projects.
Support for sustainable livelihoods and improved household incomes.
Contribution to strengthening local food security and reducing reliance on imports.
Sustainability and Future Outlook
Collective organization of farmers contributes to ensuring sustainability of the activity, while field schools provide ongoing opportunities for knowledge transfer among farmers. This experience represents a first step toward expanding future interventions to include collective marketing and linking producers to local and regional markets, thereby strengthening community resilience against economic and food security challenges.