The Integrated Pest Management Project (IPM)

Brief Description
The project was launched upon an initiative from APN and a number of regional non-governmental organizations to improve food security in the six participating countries that share specific priorities on Integrated Pest Management. It was approved by the U.N Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 2003 and is currently implemented in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, Palestine and Iran at a cost of $ 1,796,700.
At least two years of pilot activities on participatory ecology-based IPM will be carried out in the participating countries. It will ensure the exchange of practical experiences among countries to facilitate local adaptation of IPM strategies and approaches that build on farmer participation and understanding of local ecosystems.

Project Strategies

• Reducing the use of pesticide which will contribute to the protection of farming communities and their environment.

• Expanding local and export markets for high value crops.

• Strengthening the capability of government agencies, NGOs and farming communities of the six countries to plan, organize and implement programs at local level which will support community-based IPM.

• Provide technical assistance, facilitate exchanges of expertise and implement pilot activities in the field.

APN’s Contribution to the Project

• Participation in a planning conference in Iran.

• Member of the IPM national committee.

• Preparation of a study on scopes of the marketing of agricultural produces at local, Arab and international levels.

• Preparation of a study on pest management in Jordan presented to FAO.

• Participation in the establishment of farm field schools.