In response to these pressing challenges, Relief International (RI), funded by the UN World Food Programme (WFP) through the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), launched an initiative to improve the resilience and livelihoods of vulnerable Lebanese and refugee populations across North Lebanon, Akkar, Bekaa, and South Lebanon.

The project supported 350 new and 124 returning small-scale farmers, along with 30 dairy processors, through technical training, financial assistance, and essential resources. Farmers received hands-on guidance on modern livestock management, disease prevention, sustainable farming, and fodder production. Additionally, RI provided eco-friendly equipment, quality animal feed, and fertilizers to enhance productivity.

Beyond improving agricultural techniques, the initiative promoted women’s participation, gender equality, and inclusive economic growth, ensuring long-term sustainability for Lebanon’s rural communities. Through these efforts, RI continues to empower farmers and MSMEs, helping rebuild a resilient agricultural sector in Lebanon.

Ayman and Halima are two of the farmers who have benefitted from the training. Their stories are a testament to the transformative power of knowledge and support.

Ayman’s Story

“Being a person with a hearing disability doesn’t stop me from pursuing my dreams. This training is my opportunity to learn and improve, not just for myself but for my cows and my family.”

Ayman, a 32-year-old father of four from Bekaa, lost his hearing and speech as an infant due to a fever. Despite his challenges, he inherited a passion for livestock breeding from his father.

Determined to expand his knowledge, he joined Relief International’s Livelihoods and Resilience Support Program, where RI provided a sign language interpreter to ensure full participation.

Through training, he gained expertise in cow health, breeding, nutrition, waste management, and business skills. With his growing knowledge, Ayman recently bought two more calves—bringing him closer to his dream of expanding his barn and securing a better future for his family.

Halima’s Story

“Learning has no limits; it is the key to turning challenges into opportunities on our farm,”Halima, a 59-year-old farmer from Akkar, has been the sole provider for her family, including her visually impaired husband and three children, while managing a cattle ranch for over 40 years. Despite her responsibilities, she dedicated herself to Relief International’s training program, eager to enhance productivity and sustainability.

The training empowered her to reduce veterinary costs, improve herd health, and adopt eco-friendly farming methods. “The sessions taught me advanced herd management techniques that boosted my cattle’s overall health and productivity by 20%,” she shared. Halima also learned the importance of record-keeping, which proved invaluable.

Thanks to her perseverance and newfound expertise, Halima continues to optimize her farm, proving that resilience and knowledge can drive lasting change.

Relief International has only been able to support people like Ayman and Halima, thanks to UN World Food Programme (WFP) through the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development.