Amman, June 10 (Petra) – The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) on Wednesday launched the innovative AGRI-FIT project in Jordan, titled "Promoting Inclusive Agriculture in Jordan through Accessible Soilless Farming and Economic Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities." The project aims to promote inclusive agricultural practices and expand economic opportunities for persons with disabilities.

FAO Project Manager and AGRI-FIT initiator Engineer Imad Quraan said the project introduces an innovative soilless farming system specifically designed to enable persons with disabilities to participate effectively in the agricultural sector.

Speaking to the Jordan News Agency (Petra), Quraan explained that the idea emerged following a visit by a group of persons with disabilities to the FAO office in Jordan, where they inquired about opportunities to engage in agriculture, a sector that remains largely inaccessible due to the limitations of traditional farming systems.

He said that the FAO office in Jordan secured a grant from the organisation's Innovation Office to implement the initiative, which is the first project of its kind globally and is being prepared for expansion to other countries.

Quraan said the project team initially cultivated several crops, including tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, peas and watermelons to identify the most viable options from a market perspective.

The system utilises hydroponic technology and automated drip irrigation with water recycling, enabling efficient production while conserving resources.

"In an area less than half the size of a greenhouse, we produced approximately 500 kilograms of cucumbers in one month using only 15 cubic meters of water," he said.

He added that the project focuses on developing innovative, accessible farming solutions that empower persons with disabilities to actively participate in agricultural production, while promoting economic empowerment, improving livelihoods and strengthening social inclusion in line with national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Secretary-General of the Ministry of Social Development Barq Dmour said the project reflects Royal directives, the Economic Modernisation Vision and Jordan's commitment to safeguarding the rights of all people, including persons with disabilities.

He said the ministry supports initiatives that economically empower persons with disabilities and create opportunities for their active participation in the development process.

FAO Acting Representative Paul Opio said the initiative goes beyond providing a technical solution.

"This project demonstrates that when we listen to and collaborate with persons with disabilities in developing innovative solutions, we can unlock their potential and transform lives," he said.

"Agriculture is a cornerstone of livelihoods, yet it often remains inaccessible. Through this project, we are proving that innovation can make agriculture accessible to everyone and ensure that no one is left behind." Mohammed Sarjan, President of the Future Club for Persons with Physical Disabilities, described the initiative as a platform for hope, empowerment and independence.

"Today, we are not simply opening a plant nursery; we are creating a space that promotes opportunity and inclusion," he said, adding that the project demonstrates that disability is not a barrier to contributing to society when the right environment and support systems are in place.

The AGRI-FIT project forms part of broader efforts to advance inclusive development and create sustainable economic opportunities for persons with disabilities through innovation and accessible agricultural technologies. //Petra// AK