SIFOHR:

MEPI Project on Supporting Small Initiatives of Traditional Food Production and Handicraft in Rural Areas of Jabal Moussa Biosphere Reserve (SIFOHR)

Background:
As part of its Socio-economic development initiatives, APJM is implementing a project entitled “Supporting Small Initiatives of Traditional Food Production and Handicrafts in Rural Areas of Jabal Moussa Biosphere Reserve” funded through the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs, Office of the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI).

Goal:
The project aims to develop the existing potential and willingness of women to participate in the local economic activity by developing the quality of traditional handicraft and food production, and providing an adapted marketing channel that leverages ecotourism in the region.

Activities:
Activities include:
. Assessing the needs on current food processing and handicrafts activities
. Establishing and equipping a local unit for Production of traditional Agro food products
. Providing technical assistance on food production and small businesses for 40 local women from the villages of Jabal Moussa
. Designing tailor made handicraft products linked to APJM eco-tourism activities
. Developing a marketing study
. Promoting products through local events.