A memorandum of understanding was signed between the Ministry of Agriculture and the “SPHERE Building Tomorrow – SBT” association, with the aim of coordinating efforts in the areas of rural development and empowering local communities, in addition to supporting sustainable livelihoods.
This agreement comes within the framework of efforts to enhance food security and support sustainable agricultural development.

This memorandum embodies the vision of the Ministry of Agriculture in establishing a network of strategic partnerships that brings together the public and private sectors and civil society, working in an integrated manner to serve farmers and enhance the role of the state in rural areas.
The memorandum aims to support farmers and local producers by providing training and agricultural guidance, building technical and administrative capacities, as well as encouraging innovation and adopting modern agricultural methods that contribute to achieving national food security.

The memorandum was signed at the headquarters of the Ministry of Agriculture in the presence of Minister Hani and the Executive Director of the Association, Lama Kawtharani.
In his speech, Hani affirmed that “this partnership reflects the Ministry’s commitment to direct field work and activating cooperation with effective partners to achieve real and sustainable agricultural development.”

He added: “We are signing an agreement that carries a practical and humanitarian dimension at the same time, because it puts the farmer at the heart of the development process. Our partnership with the SPHERE Building Tomorrow Association comes within the Ministry’s vision to empower farmers and enhance their capabilities, which contributes to building a productive and resilient rural economy.”

He explained that “the agreement aims to empower farmers in the governorates of the South and Nabatieh through the implementation of training and awareness sessions for about 300 farmers, and the provision of direct and unconditional financial support to 129 farmers registered in the agricultural registry, with a value of $500 US dollars per farmer. The initiative also includes linking farmers with community kitchens to market their agricultural products and support the local economic cycle.”

He also pointed out that “this step is in line with the National Agriculture Plan 2026-2035, which focuses on supporting farmers as a fundamental pillar of sustainable development,” stressing that “the Ministry of Agriculture will not be satisfied with planning, but will work to transform policies into tangible projects on the ground, in partnership with associations, municipalities and donors.”

He concluded: “Together we plant hope, and build a better tomorrow for agriculture in Lebanon, based on partnership, production and dignity.”