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The Sustainable Development Goals in Jordan
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Jordan:
Story
05 April 2022
Meet 4 women and girls on the forefront of climate action in Jordan
Women and girls are impacted by climate change. But they are also at the forefront of tackling this impact in their communities. Meet four women and girls from Jordan, who lead the fight against climate change in different ways.
Awareness
Layan Al Bairouti: “…raising awareness is key to protecting the environment..”
“I believe that raising awareness is key to protecting the environment, that’s why the idea of creating this video occurred to me,” said Layan Al Bairouti, a Palestine refugee student at the UNRWA Baqa’a Preparatory Girls’ School in Jordan.
Layan entered her environmental awareness video to the UNICEF Environmental Project under the theme “reducing plastic”. Representing her school, Layan’s video ranked first out of 300 submissions in the Middle East and North Africa region.
“I decided to create the animation video because I wanted to address my peers in a different way and inspire them to be, like me, interested in protecting the environment,” said Layan.
Her short, animated video included her fellow eighth graders and enabled them to share their voices and deliver the important message of climate action for a better environment. The video showcased some environmentally friendly best practices, such as reducing the use of single use plastic and recycling. In her video, Layan also encourages community action to reduce pollution, which harms both animals and environment. “I feel sad when I see on the TV and on the internet the negative impact of plastic waste on our planet’s wildlife.” Layan added, “We can change that. We need to save our planet. It’s our responsibility.”
Read Layan’s full story as originally published on UN Jordan website
Agriculture
Aida Salameh: “I hope to build a more sustainable life for our families and community”
Aida Salameh Khalil Al-Rawajfeh, 49, joined the UN Women’s Oasis Centre in Tafilah, southern Jordan, as an agriculture trainer to be able to provide for her family. As an experienced and passionate farmer, she provides lectures and trainings on agriculture to women in her community, encouraging them to start their own businesses.
“Agriculture has always been my passion. My grades were not high enough for me to enroll in a bachelor's program, but this did not stop me from obtaining my diploma in vegetable production. I had a few months of experience as a vocational trainer in schools, but it was not permanent. I wanted to continue my higher education, and my husband was supportive, but it was not possible as we could not afford it.
I stayed home for many years taking care of my family until I learned about the work opportunities at the Oasis Centre through a WhatsApp group for women in Tafilah. My strong interest in agriculture and knowing that the Oasis Centre is a safe space for women and girls encouraged me to apply.
I also own a greenhouse and thought it would be good to share my knowledge with other women in the community. At the Oasis, I train fellow women on the basics of agriculture, as well as planting and plowing. The training also includes the benefits of greenhouse, utilizing different tools and equipment, how to plant crops and use fertilizers to maximize productivity, so women can start applying their skills in their own farm work. I also teach them about poly-agriculture, a sustainable way to grow different types of produce on the same piece of land which improves the property of soil by stabilizing nitrogen.” Said Aida.
Read Aida’s full story as originally published on UN Women website
Energy
Basma Al-Shatti : “…the local community in rural areas are the most affected by climate change…”
Women in Jordan have a significant role in the sustainable energy sector but are limited at the same time as these sectors are mainly occupied by men, hence limiting the role of women in governance and technical roles, as well as their participation in developing gender responsive policies. As the most impacted, women are also a critical part of the solution, and women in Jordan are leading the efforts against climate change through adaptation, mitigation, and evidence-based response. On the fifth floor in the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources in the capital of Jordan, Amman sets Basma Al-Shatti as the head of the Corporate Social Responsibilities Division in the Jordan Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Fund (JREEEF). As an engineer, Basma never thought that she will be leading such a vital position in the Ministry.
From Deir Alla Near Eastern town in Balqa Governorate, Basma started her journey to leading climate action in the energy sector at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources. Basma is a mother of two girls, she obtained a scholarship to study engineering at the University of Jordan. “Back then it was crucial for me to work hard and get a scholarship to obtain my bachelor’s degree. my passion to work in mechanics, production, and energy was a future path for me that I wanted to achieve that”, Basma said.
Basma leads an important division in the Jordan Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Fund which serves as a connection point between the community and the fund. The fund leads national efforts to optimize and utilize energy consumption by providing the necessary funding to advance and implement sustainable solutions to enhance energy efficiency and increase the use of renewable energy in coordination with local and international institutions and stakeholders.
Basma manages and oversees the projects that are implemented under the fund, with her background experience in managing projects and the energy sector her role was a crucial one in the ministry. The energy sector is one of the main contributors to climate change globally, and the main source of emissions in Jordan, where it contributes to over 76% of total national greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in 2016 “the local community in rural areas are the most affected by climate change, and through the division, we look at opportunities where we can minimize the energy consumption in these areas through installing solar panels”, Basma added.
“I want people to look at me as a qualified engineer in the energy sector, who is an expert in the field, and not criticize or observe me as a woman”, Basma said. As the head of the division in the ministry, she runs two main projects in Amman, one of them being with the healthcare sector. The Covid-19 pandemic has imposed several obstacles to the healthcare system and energy consumption plays a major role in these institutions and the services they provide. The Jordan Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Fund (JREEEF). has provided these institutions with sustainable measures for cooling and heating such as photovoltaic systems which transform solar energy into renewable electricity.
Read Basma’s full story as originally published on UNDP website
Water conservation
Samahir: “Everyone should cooperate to save water”
For Syrian refugee Samahir, everyone should cooperate to save water.
Samahir, who lives in Zaatari Camp, uses a plastic basin to save water for planting.
“Any water you save is good. Greywater does not harm plants; it is harmless. As long as water is clean, it can’t do any damage. A small amount of water can do wonders. Samahir’s garden is full of green and plants. Saving water is for the climate change and the harsh conditions here in the camp,” said Samahir.
Watch a video story of Samahir as originally published on UNHCR YouTube channel.
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Press Release
20 June 2021
On World Refugee Day, Jordan continues to be the second host country of refugees per capita in the world
Jordan continues to be the second host country of refugees per capita in the world, according to UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency. Currently home to over 750,000 refugees, Jordan has time and again opened its doors to those forced to flee. Today, more than 10 years into the Syria crisis, the vast majority of Jordanians - 94 percent - still say they are sympathetic towards refugees.
This positive attitude towards including refugees in Jordanian society has also extended to the health sector. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, refugees in Jordan have been included in the national response and, more recently, have been able to receive the vaccine free of charge. 40 percent of eligible refugees living in refugee camps in Jordan have now received at least their first dose of the vaccine.
Despite this, the COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on health care, schools and our communities, severely impacting refugees and their Jordanian hosts, and pushing more families into poverty. This means refugees are increasingly resorting to moving to lower-quality shelters, skipping rent, accumulating debt or reducing food expenditure. In addressing these challenges and building back better, UNHCR is committed to supporting both refugee and Jordanian communities.
“Our assistance to refugees must be part of the broader recovery efforts to help all those affected by the economic impact of the crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic has illustrated that we all have a role to play in keeping each other safe." said Dominik Bartsch, UNHCR Jordan Representative. "UNHCR is dedicated to work with the Jordanian Government to ensure that the needs of vulnerable refugees and Jordanians are met,” Bartsch added. In recognition of the skills refugees have to offer, on World Refugee Day, UNHCR is launching a Nursing and Health Care Lab in partnership with Luminus Technical University College (LTUC), which will benefit both refugee and Jordanian students. Using the latest medical equipment, machines and amenities for Pediatrics, Maternity, Obstetrics and Gynecology, the lab simulates the environment of a hospital providing vocational training to ensure students’ smooth transition to the labor market.
Additionally, through a collaboration with the UN Chamber Music Society and in a performance led by Jordanian singer, Leen Alfaqih, and accompanied by a refugee choir, UNHCR Jordan is using the power of music to highlight that ‘Together, we can achieve anything. Together we can heal, learn and shine.’
This positive attitude towards including refugees in Jordanian society has also extended to the health sector. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, refugees in Jordan have been included in the national response and, more recently, have been able to receive the vaccine free of charge. 40 percent of eligible refugees living in refugee camps in Jordan have now received at least their first dose of the vaccine.
Despite this, the COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on health care, schools and our communities, severely impacting refugees and their Jordanian hosts, and pushing more families into poverty. This means refugees are increasingly resorting to moving to lower-quality shelters, skipping rent, accumulating debt or reducing food expenditure. In addressing these challenges and building back better, UNHCR is committed to supporting both refugee and Jordanian communities.
“Our assistance to refugees must be part of the broader recovery efforts to help all those affected by the economic impact of the crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic has illustrated that we all have a role to play in keeping each other safe." said Dominik Bartsch, UNHCR Jordan Representative. "UNHCR is dedicated to work with the Jordanian Government to ensure that the needs of vulnerable refugees and Jordanians are met,” Bartsch added. In recognition of the skills refugees have to offer, on World Refugee Day, UNHCR is launching a Nursing and Health Care Lab in partnership with Luminus Technical University College (LTUC), which will benefit both refugee and Jordanian students. Using the latest medical equipment, machines and amenities for Pediatrics, Maternity, Obstetrics and Gynecology, the lab simulates the environment of a hospital providing vocational training to ensure students’ smooth transition to the labor market.
Additionally, through a collaboration with the UN Chamber Music Society and in a performance led by Jordanian singer, Leen Alfaqih, and accompanied by a refugee choir, UNHCR Jordan is using the power of music to highlight that ‘Together, we can achieve anything. Together we can heal, learn and shine.’
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Take Action
14 June 2021
مبادرة "فيريفايد" Verified
لن نتمكّن من احتواء الفيروس وآثاره إلا إذا أُتيحت لكل شخص إمكانية الوصول إلى معلومات دقيقة وموثوق بها. إنّ Verified هي مبادرة أطلقتها الأمم المتحدة للتصدّي للمعلومات غير الدقيقة والكاذبة من خلال توفير محتوى يمكن الوثوق به: معلومات منقذة للحياة ونصائح قائمة على وقائع وقصص تروي أفضل إبداعات الإنسان.
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Story
29 March 2023
UNDP fosters food security, increases water use efficiency through hydroponic gardening
Jordan, Jerash – At the heart of Jerash, the Gaza camp is located five kilometers from the famous Roman ruins of Jerash covering an area of 0.75 square kilometers. From that camp, a 35-year-old Palestinian refugee young man is the founder of “Senera” (Arabic word for hook) a green business that seeks to empower women and youth entrepreneurs lacking access to job opportunities and farming land specifically in marginalized communities. “Senera” provides hydroponics farming solutions for rooftops and greenhouses that are using hydroponics technology in irrigation and small agricultural systems for houses resulting in reducing water use by on average 70% Senera additionally provides technical consultancies in the agricultural field.
Mohammad Syam’s commitment is what pushed him to transform a promise into reality at the Gaza camp. His journey to bring “Senera” to life was long, tough, and an example of resilience. “It wasn’t easy when I first graduated from the university. The inability to work, being a refugee as well as being the sole caregiver for my family were all heavy burdens. And although the road ahead of me was long and bumpy, I was able to get through it so far”, Syam said.
Over three years, Syam was faced with numerous obstacles when entering the marketplace, which is a difficult step for like-minded youth but more difficult for a young refugee. The story of “Senera” started when Mohammad met Abu Abdallah in the Gaza camp who was growing hydroponic crops on his own house rooftop. Both individuals realized the value of their efforts towards potentially addressing this concern, and very early on, started navigating approaches to build hydroponic household system producing food on unexploited surfaces in more than one house in the Gaza camp. Mohammad said, “Senera was more than a small green business for the camp, it was the essence for livelihoods, job opportunities and income generation for a number of households”.
Syam’s commitment to bringing “Senera” to life meant he continuously looks for opportunities to grow “Senera” and upscale the work he is doing on the ground. As part of this effort, he applied a call for proposals to receive training and capacity building through UNDP’s SDG climate facility project "Scaling up Water Innovation for Climate Security in Northern Jordan”. Senera became one of the seven startups that were selected to receive a capacity-building program under the project which is implemented by UNDP Jordan and funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) under the regional SDG Climate Facility project: Climate Action for Human Security in the Arab States. The UNDP project aims to develop entrepreneurial water security projects and capacitate innovative SMEs in the water sector to enhance an enabling local environment in the local market and contribute to the development of innovative solutions to realize water security.
Through the UNDP project, “Senera” got the opportunity to implement five pilots of hydroponic systems in the Jarash and Mafraq governorates including a pilot in Jerash Special Needs Caring Center. Additionally, two rooftop hydroponic systems were installed in two households in both Mafraq and Jarash “Gaza Camp”. Mohammad’s idea was mainly to provide additional income to households and contribute to food security and foster sustainability. His objective was to present an alternative income for the household members through this pilot, which could generate an additional income of 100-150$ on a monthly basis. Senera aims to provide a full value chain starting from implementing the pilots, providing technical assistance, and connecting the beneficiaries with market channels to sell their products. Senara has currently eleven functional hydroponic systems including four household rooftops in the Gaza camp which are growing hydroponic crops; it also provides job opportunities for 34 young men and women. Additionally, in an attempt to upscale Senara’s work, the project established a site showcasing all the types of hydroponic systems while also providing technical training for those interested in entering the hydroponic market.
Senera demonstrates the power of entrepreneurship and innovation that address complex local challenges, “It took six months for Senera to be registered officially, and this was a difficult challenge for me and the team”, Seyam adds. Entrepreneurs and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) represent the future of the economy in Jordan, and a key sector to create employment opportunities that could lead to economic development and national prosperity; they however face several challenges that are preventing them from growth. “Senera” is an example of passion and perseverance and hope for a better future that showcases the resilience of people communities and the environment.
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Story
30 March 2023
Refugee women in Jordan donate for earthquake survivors
"I could not believe what happened in Syria. People were already suffering and now everyone has lost everything," says Syrian refugee Nour about the recent earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria. “I still have some family and friends in my home country, and although they were not directly affected, they are psychologically in distress after this catastrophe,” she added.
One month after the devastating twin earthquakes in south-eastern Türkiye and northern Syria, the figures are staggering: at least 54,000 dead, 214,000 buildings collapsed or in danger of collapse, and there are still families living in tents, flimsy shelters and partially destroyed buildings.
34-year-old Nour Waleed Al Shaar is a refugee in Jordan who fled Damascus in 2013 with her husband and eldest daughter, a toddler at the time. Now, ten years later, she and her family have their home in Maan, South of Jordan, and she is a volunteer with the “Community Support Committees” that brings together host communities and refugees. The committees focus on enhancing and supporting the cohesion between both communities.
Like a growing number of refugees in Jordan, Nour, too, felt it was time to act and share the little she has with others in dire need.
Fatima Mohammad Saleh, a 37-year-old Syrian refugee, also wanted to help the survivors. Although she does not have much, she decided to donate to UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency.
“A small gesture, a small action”, Fatima shrugs, “but added to other small actions, it will make a very big whole”.
Fatima arrived with her family from Damascus ten years ago while pregnant with her first child and without having any relatives in Jordan. She knows first-hand what means to lose it all and receiving a helping hand in those critical moments. She volunteers at the “Women Empowerment Network” in Maan, which aim to raise awareness on women’s rights and support psycho-social wellbeing of refugee and Jordanian women and girls.
The disaster caused by the two earthquakes is unseen in the area, and its consequences will probably last for years. The conditions of the survivors are now of outmost concern for the humanitarian community, including UNHCR, as more than two million people have been affected. The earthquakes have destroyed homes, livelihoods, and the local infrastructure and as the disaster occurred during the harsh winter months, families are struggling in the bitter cold and are in urgent need of shelter and relief items.
“I am especially concerned about the children that lost their parents and the families that lost their houses,” Fatima says. “I feel lucky because I have a roof over my head, shoes on my feet and a place where my three kids and I feel safe,” she adds. “It’s time to take action,” she concludes.
“When you put a grain of sand, it means you have done something to help”, Nour says, “even if it is only five Jordanian Dinar (some seven US$). “I do not want them to experience what I lived through”, she explains “I know what it means to live in a tent, I know what it means to lose everything and have nowhere to go.”
“I trust UNHCR because I know the money will reach the right people. In my case, I am receiving cash assistance from them, so I know the funds reach those in need,” Nour stresses hinting at UNHCR providing shelter to the survivors.
UNHCR is on the ground in Türkiye and Syria responding where possible with emergency supplies to earthquake survivors. In Türkiye, the provinces heavily affected by the earthquakes are also the ones in which refugees live in large numbers. UNHCR is working under the leadership of the Turkish authorities and with other UN agencies and is responding with urgently requested support to both refugees and host communities, including blankets, food packs, kitchen sets, mattresses, and tents.
In Syria, UNHCR is coordinating the response with other UN agencies and humanitarian partners (including in Northwest Syria) and is delivering assistance to those in need. UNHCR has deployed tens of thousands of core relief items, including high-thermal blankets, mattresses, kitchen sets, plastic sheeting, jerry cans and sleeping mats. UNHCR is also taking part in cross-border convoys bringing more desperately needed aid into North-West Syria.
In addition to this, UNHCR has mobilize its stockpiles from the global warehouse in Jordan and airlifted 8,794 Tents and 2,592 blankets which have been delivered to Turkey – Adana (Incirlik mostly). The airlifts were conducted through donated flights facilitated by the Government of Jordan, Qatar, and Turkey. There are plans to ship over 1,000 tons of core relief items including blankets, kitchen sets, solar lamps, plastic sheets, sleeping mats and jerrycans.
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Story
27 March 2023
Digital skills are transforming the future for girls in Jordan
“For the first time in my life, I started to feel a sense of responsibility, self-reliance and independence,” said 21-year-old Sireen Khaled from Amman, who got her first job in data collection and entry after completing a digital skills course supported by UNICEF.
Sireen joined the Digital Skills for a Better Future programme at the encouragement of her mother, despite some initial reluctance on her part. “I was surprised how practical and engaging the course was and the access to freelance work opportunities really helped grow my self-confidence."
UNICEF’s Digital Skills for A Better Future programme, in partnership with Jordan’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship (MoDEE) and Digital Opportunity Trust (DOT), equips vulnerable youth with basic and advanced digital skills and links them with income generating opportunities in both the formal and gig economy.
“In the modern world, I think that learning English and digital skills are the most critical things we can do to improve our employment opportunities and our life in general," said Sireen.
UNICEF is committed to working with and for girls and young women to bridge the gap between the skills girls need to be competitive in the 21st century, versus those they traditionally had access to.
“My message to other girls and women is think beyond the traditional path of getting a university degree,” said Sireen. “Digital skills are so important for girls in today's world and they are easy to learn! Be self-confident and persistent, regardless of the difficulties and challenges you face.”
UNICEF’s Digital Skills for a Better Future programme is generously supported by funding from Chloé, the European Union, KfW, and the Government of the Netherlands through the Prospects partnership.
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Story
27 March 2023
WFP empowers women through agricultural activities
Asmahan found herself as a sole provider for her family after her husband became unemployed due to illness. With some initial hesitation, she decided to apply for a job at the Ministry of Agriculture’s site in Jerash, a city in northern Jordan participating in the MADAD project, a joint effort between the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). Funded by the European Union (EU), the project aims to enhance resilient livelihoods and food security for more than 260,000 Jordanians and Syrian refugees. Through her employment, Asmahan was able to receive training and acquire valuable experience in various agricultural methods such as removing weeds to control fire hazards, soil preparation, plantation, irrigation and harvesting.
For more than fifty years, WFP has been a valuable partner in Jordan, providing strategic and operational assistance to the Jordanian government, while bolstering the capabilities of national institutions, policies, and programmes. Through a diverse range of initiatives, WFP is addressing the impacts of climate change and the needs of refugees, while also providing livelihood support to the most vulnerable Jordanians.
By taking on this opportunity, Asmahan not only became financially independent but also gained the confidence to express herself, obtain knowledge and share it with others. While working at the site, she connected with women from the region who inspired her to recognize her own potential and make a meaningful impact. "Being able to meet individuals outside of my close circle has given me a greater sense of confidence,” Asmahan says. "I used to live in my own bubble, but now I feel more empowered and capable of achieving anything I want."
Alongside its efforts to promote economic stability and food security for vulnerable communities, WFP Jordan has introduced a novel approach to delivering entitlements to individuals involved in livelihood activities through mobile money. This allows participants to redeem their monthly entitlements via their own financial accounts (electronic wallets), becoming regular customers of Jordanian financial service providers and unlocking the possibility of using them for other financial activities, including facilitating transfers and bill payments.
"You have no idea how absolutely thrilled and in full control I felt when I received my first entitlement from this project. Even my kids were so excited and asked me to buy them the stationery they had dreamed about for weeks to use at school," says Asmahan.
WFP is not solely providing financial resources to vulnerable individuals to help sustain their families, but also enabling women such as Asmahan to gain self-assurance, expertise, and ownership of their financial prospects.
Despite women’s high educational attainment, prevailing social norms in the country allow relatively few women to be economically active, and they are mainly employed in a limited number of sectors such as education, health and social work.
"When I reflect on my previous experiences, I am inspired to apply what I've learned to build a more sustainable and profitable future. My ultimate goal is to rent a piece of land and cultivate crops that provide both a source of income and contribute to the preservation of the environment."
Asmahan's experience is one of numerous examples illustrating the positive effects of WFP's activities on changing the lives of people in Jordan. Through its efforts to address climate change challenges on the ground, including land reclamation, forest and pasture development, water collection, soil protection, and conservation measures, WFP is significantly improving the lives of those most in need.
Asmahan's story is a story of hope, resilience, and the power of opportunity.
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Story
07 March 2023
Women in Jordan utilize technology to address challenges in their communities, households
While technology is rapidly advancing, potentially widening the existing digital gender gap, women and girls in Jordan choose to keep pace against all odds – they decide to power on.
The Global Gender Gap report (2018) shows that 75% of jobs will be related to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) areas by 2050. Yet, today, women hold just 22% of positions in artificial intelligence (AI) globally, to name just one.
In Jordan, UNESCO revealed that females represented more than 60 per cent of students in the natural sciences, medicine, dentistry and pharmacy in 2022. However, figures for female students in engineering and computer science lied around 28 per cent and 45 per cent, respectively, during the same period.
While the situation in Jordan presents an encouraging picture, the need to increase women and girls’ representation across technology and innovation fields becomes more pressing than ever.
As we celebrate the International Women’s Day under the theme: “DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality”, meet four women in Jordan who deploy technology to address challenges on different levels.
Salma powers on digital agribusiness to address water scarcity
Salma Amayri, a Jordanian Electrical Engineer, utilized her education and knowledge in developing innovative systems that help farmers to reach the optimum use of water and fertilizers by delivering the precise amount of water and nutrients to plants in a timely manner.
As Jordan is one of the most water-scarce countries in the world, Amayri’s innovation contributes to addressing water scarcity challenge in the agriculture sector.
Her innovation “Smart Irrigation and Fertigation System” contributes to save up to 30% of water consumption in open fields and up to 70% in closed systems, by providing remote control of farms' irrigation anytime and anywhere using the Internet of Things and at a competitive price. Compatible with several types of cultivations and crops, provided by "Touch Screen" with a user-friendly multilingual interface.
As a Co-founder of “Smart Green for AgriTech Solutions” startup, Amayri was one of seven startups that received training and capacity building through UNDP’s SDG climate facility project "Scaling up Water Innovation for Climate Security in Northern Jordan”.
Her participation in the SDGs Climate Facility Project, provided her with the opportunity to further develop her business. Through the support she received, Salma presented her project at a side event at the MENA Climate Week in Dubai in March 2022, allowing her to connect internationally and highlighting her startup technology at the MENA region. Additionally, the project supported smart green by providing a capacity-building training including business and technical training sessions in the field of leadership, marketing, finance, and water management. Moreover, the project gave smart green the opportunity to implement a pilot for their innovative water technology at Jerash governorate, in the North of Jordan.
UNDP’s SDG climate facility project aims at scaling up innovation in water management for climate security in Northern Jordan through targeting startups. The project has been running since 2021 and will be implemented over two years with the aim of strengthening the management of water resources in the governorates of Jerash and Mafraq as part of the regional SDG Climate Facility project: Climate Action for Human Security in the Arab States.
According to Amayri, more women are needed at the forefront of tech to address the diverse challenges facing their communities.
“It’s vital to inspire and empower next generation of female role models to create a more diverse and inclusive tech world. We need more women to be at the forefront of tech and innovation alongside the men”, said the 30-year-old entrepreneur.
Enas Radwan powers on AI to promote the recycling culture
Radwan’s interest in recycling, prompted her to team up with other Jordanian entrepreneurs to develop eRecycleHUB; a social platform that provides users with a convenient, accessible and affordable tool to recycle more effectively.
As Jordan faces increasing pressure on its waste management infrastructure, Radwan and her partners project, contributes to enhancing the average recycling rate, while supporting low-income communities in earning profits from recycling to positively impact their livelihood.
Her interest in recycling business goes back to 2018, when she realized that there is a need in Jordan to provide recycling service and reach out to people to encourage them to preserve environment and get rewarded for their recyclables or donate them for a good cause.
In 2021, she teamed up with other partners and developed eRecycleHUB platform. Users can sign up to the platform using the mobile or web application, book a collection time when eRecycleHUB’s collectors are in the relevant area and receive points for providing various forms of recyclable waste for collection.
Recycling materials are thus called “social recyclables” for they can provide both environmental as well as social benefits, according to Radwan. Through her start-up, Radwan offers waste-identification AI software that identifies the recycling availability of certain waste items to increase the value of collected recyclables while also enhancing the recycling behavior of the community.
Radwan received two grants from UNICEF to develop her business, and participated in the LevelUP accelerator initiative in 2021, a program by UNIDO that aims at supporting entrepreneurs, innovators, SMEs, start-ups, and organizations to build successful business models to enter global markets.
The LevelUp initiative encourages a community of young women and men who are motivated to achieve an inclusive and sustainable digital transition and share their experiences of digital transformation. Radwan was recognized as one of the top entrepreneurs who completed the required phases of the program and received the title of Champions of Digital Change.
''The levelup accelerator program provided the dotted lines and interactive pathway for us to build our business from the ground up in a structured way,” said Radwan.
She added that as a participant in the program, it was a great opportunity for her to receive the right support and ensure creating a validated business all in one place.
Rola and Nahid power on technology to fix home appliances
For Rola and Nahid, technology literacy can be helpful at the household level.
Both Rola and Nahid are currently enrolled in mobiles maintenance training funded by UNHCR and implemented by CARE in Azraq camp for Syrian refugees.
“I want to master this field -Technology” said Rola, a 32-year-old mother of six.
She added that she wants to rely on herself to fix devices used by her family.
“Unexpectedly, I loved this field, while I thought it’s complicated. Now I won’t stop on mobile maintenance, but I want also like to learn fixing TV screens, and laptops.”
For Nahid, however, she wants to be a role model for her own children in this field.
“We have a duty to grow the love of knowledge in our children, that’s why I need to educate myself first.”
“I was afraid to enter the technology field, and I think many women and girls are feeling the same. I’m now aiming at encouraging the females in the camp to join such activity, it is the future,” said the 30-year-old Azraq camp resident. “Technology is the future, and I want to be part of it.”
Now, there are 12 female and 18 male participants in the training provided by UNHCR at the camp.
UNHCR in partnership with CARE established the Technology Lab activities in Azraq camp at the community centers. The Labs are equipped with devices and access to internet, in which enables Azraq camp resident to participate in and learning courses. The technology learning programs include basic computer skills, basic coding learning, internet browsing and use.
These stories were contributed by UNDP, UNIDO, UNHCR and edited by the United Nations Resident Coordinator Office in Jordan
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Press Release
29 March 2023
UNDP and partners launch Inclusive Insurance and Risk Financing project
Amman, 22 March 2023 - The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched the Inclusive Insurance and Risk Financing project under the patronage of H.E the Minister of Agriculture, Eng. Khaled Al-Hneifat and in presence of Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Jordan Mr. Ziad Ghanma and UNDP Resident Representative in Jordan Mrs. Randa Abl-Hosn as well as a number of partners. The project is implemented under the framework of cooperation and partnership between the Central Bank, the Ministry of Agriculture, the private sector and UNDP. The project, which is implemented in partnership between UNDP, the Government of Germany and the Insurance Development Forum (IDF) is aimed to integrate risk insurance into the development process and underline the importance of integrated insurance, risk financing and investment solutions so as to raise awareness on inclusive insurance and risk financing. It also seeks to increase the resilience of small farmers and producers against agricultural production and market risks, especially those resulting from the impact of climate change and other infrastructure risks, and to take the necessary measures to mitigate risks to the agriculture sector and agricultural investments, and encourage the private sector to participate in the development of the agriculture sector, in addition to enhancing the capacity of farmers to access financing and strengthening the role of the Central Bank in establishing institutional governance rules on the inclusive insurance and risk financing tools in insurance companies and implementing the financial inclusion policy.
The launch of the Inclusive Insurance and Risk Financing project comes at a time when efforts of the local and international communities are concerted to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs and to enhance the protection of vulnerable communities from social, economic, climatic and health disasters by reinforcing the role of insurance and risk financing in development. “This project is consistent with the national approaches and strategies and the Economic Modernization Vision stressing the importance of transforming into a sustainable economic activity that takes into account all environmental and social dimensions and the engagement of youth, women, civil society organizations and think tanks," said the Minister of Agriculture Eng. Khaled Al-Hneifat. The project aims at strengthening the role of the Agricultural Risk Fund and the new Law on Takaful, taking the necessary measures to reduce risks to the agriculture sector and agricultural investments and encouraging the private sector to participate in the development of the agricultural sector. "UNDP is committed to the continued eradication poverty, of poverty, accompanying countries on their path towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs, and working towards the implementation of the Paris Agreement in line with the Economic Modernization Vision. The risk insurance and financing project is an important safety network to protect people and livelihoods from the impact of crises, and we will work to promote innovation and creativity to help change systems and address the challenges that face the SDGs achievement,” said UNDP Resident Representative Randa Aboul-Hosn. “The Central Bank of Jordan has taken many steps towards improving an enabling environment for financial inclusion. The strategy will include the insurance sector so as to enhance its role in addressing emergency situations and fulfilling the necessary requirement of decent life in addition to saving as one of the main pillars of the strategy in order to work on developing savings products that help the financial consumer in proper financial planning so that living conditions are improved and available financial resources are efficiently and responsibly used,” said Deputy Governor of the Central Bank Mr. Ziyad Ghanma in his opening remarks which he delivered on behalf of the Governor of the Central Bank, Dr. Adel Al-Sharkas. Work will also be done to incorporate the principles of green and sustainable financing in the action plans with partners in order to enhance the Kingdom's endeavor to transform into green economy and take into account the impacts of climate change on the targeted groups.
The launch of the Inclusive Insurance and Risk Financing project comes at a time when efforts of the local and international communities are concerted to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs and to enhance the protection of vulnerable communities from social, economic, climatic and health disasters by reinforcing the role of insurance and risk financing in development. “This project is consistent with the national approaches and strategies and the Economic Modernization Vision stressing the importance of transforming into a sustainable economic activity that takes into account all environmental and social dimensions and the engagement of youth, women, civil society organizations and think tanks," said the Minister of Agriculture Eng. Khaled Al-Hneifat. The project aims at strengthening the role of the Agricultural Risk Fund and the new Law on Takaful, taking the necessary measures to reduce risks to the agriculture sector and agricultural investments and encouraging the private sector to participate in the development of the agricultural sector. "UNDP is committed to the continued eradication poverty, of poverty, accompanying countries on their path towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs, and working towards the implementation of the Paris Agreement in line with the Economic Modernization Vision. The risk insurance and financing project is an important safety network to protect people and livelihoods from the impact of crises, and we will work to promote innovation and creativity to help change systems and address the challenges that face the SDGs achievement,” said UNDP Resident Representative Randa Aboul-Hosn. “The Central Bank of Jordan has taken many steps towards improving an enabling environment for financial inclusion. The strategy will include the insurance sector so as to enhance its role in addressing emergency situations and fulfilling the necessary requirement of decent life in addition to saving as one of the main pillars of the strategy in order to work on developing savings products that help the financial consumer in proper financial planning so that living conditions are improved and available financial resources are efficiently and responsibly used,” said Deputy Governor of the Central Bank Mr. Ziyad Ghanma in his opening remarks which he delivered on behalf of the Governor of the Central Bank, Dr. Adel Al-Sharkas. Work will also be done to incorporate the principles of green and sustainable financing in the action plans with partners in order to enhance the Kingdom's endeavor to transform into green economy and take into account the impacts of climate change on the targeted groups.
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Press Release
28 March 2023
UN Resident Coordinator, Interior Minister discuss cooperation
AMMAN — Interior Minister Mazen Faraya and UN Resident Coordinator in Jordan Sheri Ritsema-Anderson on Monday discussed means to enhance cooperation in various fields. The two sides discussed supporting the government's efforts to host refugees and the subsequent economic and social ramifications that affected the general budget, all aspects of life and significantly exceeded Jordan's limited capabilities and resources, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.
Faraya called on the international community to provide adequate funding to secure the Syrian crisis response plan, as well as to support the communities that hosted refugees, sharing with them all their health, education and service resources and possibilities through establishing productive projects that alleviate the suffering of residents.
Ritsema-Anderson reviewed the action plan of UN organisations in Jordan and their efforts to support the government, particularly with regard to development goals, and to support Syrian refugees in Jordan.
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Press Release
27 March 2023
With participation of Jordanian entrepreneurs, UNIDO’s LevelUP “Gate 4 Seed to Grow" Program organized in Italy
On March 9th, 2023, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) held the final ceremony of the "Gate 4: Seed to Grow" phase of its LevelUp Accelerator program in Trieste, Italy.
This phase was focused on helping seven Jordanian startups grow and develop their businesses. The program is part of the larger "LevelUp – Advancing Jordanian Industries" multi-component project, which aims to create decent job opportunities for women and youth by supporting Jordanian SMEs and start-ups to build game-changing business models to enter global markets. The LevelUp Accelerator program follows a five-gate selection process, and the Jordanian SMEs had previously completed gates 1-3, earning the designation of "Champions of Digital Change." The immersive industry training and fundraising boot camps for the "Gate 4: Seed to Grow" phase took place in Italy.
The LevelUp Accelerator program is delivered in partnership with the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply, and other local partners, and funded by the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS).
The final ceremony was attended by government officials of the government of Friuli Venezia-Giulia region, business leaders, and representatives from UNIDO and its partner organizations. Ms. Sulafa Mdanat, the Country Representative of UNIDO in Jordan, took a moment to reflect on the progress that LevelUp Champions have made over the past few months, commending the tremendous dedication and commitment to both their personal and professional growth.
Ms. Mdanat also shared an invitation to the Business and Investment regional Forum that will take place in Amman this May. The forum will be a significant opportunity to promote trade and investment prospects and highlight the finest tactics and methods for enhancing export-oriented value chains in the MENA region.
To learn more about the LevelUp program and UNIDO's other initiatives, visit https://levelupjordan.org/en/home/.
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Press Release
27 March 2023
Japanese ambassador visits UNRWA installations to Baqa’a Palestine refugee camp
Amman - Today, the Japanese Ambassador to Jordan, H.E. Mr. Jiro Okuyama, paid a visit to a Palestine Refugee family from Syria (PRS), as well as several United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) installations in Baqa’a camp, to show support for the work of UNRWA across the Middle East. The Japanese delegation was welcomed by Mr. Olaf Becker, Acting Director of UNRWA Affairs in Jordan.
Mr. Becker briefed H.E. Mr. Jiro Okuyama about the Agency’s operations in Jordan and the challenges facing Palestine Refugees, especially Palestine Refugees from Syria. This was followed by a briefing by Dr. Akihiro Seita, UNRWA Director of Health, who expressed gratitude to the Government of Japan for their enduring support in the last 70 years.
Dr. Oroba Al Mousa, UNRWA Jordan Field Chief of Education emphasized the academic challenges and learning loss facing students following the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the importance of mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) for Palestine Refugee children and youth. The delegation then toured the UNRWA Baqa’a Health Centre and visited the shelter of a PRS family.
Mr. Okuyama reiterated Japan's commitment to supporting refugees in Jordan and across the region, “I am honored to have had the opportunity to visit UNRWA schools, and health centers, and meet with refugees in Jordan. UNRWA's role in providing Palestinian refugees with essential services such as healthcare, education, and social security is vital for both humanitarian needs and stability in the Middle East. Japan remains committed to supporting the efforts of UNRWA in providing critical services to refugees in Jordan and the region, and will continue to work closely with our partners to improve the lives of those affected by the conflict."
“This year, the Government of Japan continues to support UNRWA in enhancing human security of Palestine refugees residing in Jordan by addressing their food security and through delivery of critical healthcare and basic education services for those who have been greatly affected by the COVID-19 crisis and its associated impacts. We sincerely thank you for your essential assistance,” Olaf Becker said.
2023 marks the 70th year anniversary of unwavering support from Japan to UNRWA. Since 1953, continuous contributions by Japan have supported millions of lives across the region. In 2022, Japan ranked 6th among the Agency’s largest donors, with a total contribution of US$ 30.2 million. As of March 2023, the Government of Japan has contributed US$33.2 million to UNRWA as an early supplemental disbursement, considering the critical financial needs of the Agency. Additionally, the contribution will assist in supporting the Agency’s Emergency Appeals for Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and the occupied Palestinian territory.
The generous supplemental contribution includes US$ 5 million for Jordan field to enhance the human security of Palestine Refugees in Jordan, specifically for food security and the provision of basic health care and education services. The Government of Japan also extended its support to UNRWA with a donation of US$ 5.5 million, as Emergency Grant Aid in response to global food security facing Palestine Refugees in Gaza and Syria and another US$ 0.5 million as Emergency Grant Aid in response to the earthquake in Türkiye and Syria.
The visit by the Japanese Ambassador to Jordan highlights the importance of international support in addressing the needs of refugees in Jordan and the region. It also demonstrates the strong partnership between Japan and Jordan and the shared commitment to providing critical services to those in need.
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Press Release
27 March 2023
Japan and UNOPS sign new agreement supporting Royal Medical Services in Jordan
Amman, March 27, 2023 – The Government of Japan and UNOPS signed a new agreement to enhance the operational capacity of the Royal Medical Services (RMS) and strengthen the health response in Jordan.
With the USD 1.7 million funding from the Government of Japan, this project will further enhance the RMS operational capacity in the provision of critical/urgent health services through procurement of medical equipment for RMS health facilities across Jordan. The project intends to support the Government of Jordan to meet increased demand for health services while continuing to strengthen the resilience and quality of services provided for the Jordanian population and Syrian refugees in the country.
Mr. OKUYAMA Jiro, Ambassador of Japan to Jordan, said: “Responding to immediate humanitarian needs and providing assistance for social stabilization are the top priorities for Japan’s development cooperation policy in Jordan. Given Jordan’s growing population and the influx of refugees, the health system is overburdened making it challenging to provide both Jordanians and Syrian refugees with quality health care services. We hope that our assistance will ease the burden of Jordan in offering essential services to vulnerable people.”
Brigadier General Dr. Yousef Zureikat, the Director of RMS, said: “the newly generous support provided to the RMS by the Government of Japan and UNOPS will give the RMS facilities more momentum in their ardent efforts to continually improve the quality of medical care provided by the RMS and its facilities to those who need it most when they need it most. And this replacement of outdated equipment within The Government of Japan and the UNOPS project for the year 2023 will enhance the Royal Medical Services’ capacity support to cover the continuously increased workload. as well, this endeavor would undoubtedly bring about the coherence of efforts, open avenues for future cooperation, and implement further proposed projects.”
Muhammad Usman Akram, Representative and Director of UNOPS Operational Hub in Amman, said: “this is a great opportunity to further strengthen our ongoing partnership with Japan and the Royal Medical Services. This project complements the earlier interventions that have enhanced RMS’s capacity to respond to increased demand for health services. The support from the Government and people of Japan will further enable the RMS in providing quality health care services to vulnerable populations across Jordan.”
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