The JP takes an intersector approach to its development interventions. An intersector strategy responds to the many and varied needs of poor rural people – from lack of access to schools, healthcare, water or financial services, to chronic food insecurity – to create a supportive foundation for poverty reduction.

By working across different sectors – social, economic and institutional – the JP helps people increase their food production, raise their incomes, improve their literacy, health and living conditions, and secure rights to land, water and other natural resources. In the process they become empowered to shape the decisions and policies that affect their lives.

Why the intersector approach works

An evaluation of the benefits of the JP’s intersectoral model was conducted in 2009 by the Catholic University of Leuven (Belgium). The study focuses on three JP programmes in Mali, Mozambique and Kenya, comparing data gathered from JP interventions to results from other IFAD programmes in the same countries.

The study provides valuable insights into the concrete benefits of the intersector development approach. When sectoral interventions are properly coordinated they can help accomplish lasting change. People become stronger, healthier and better educated. When their basic needs are met, when they feel fitter and more confident, then they are in a better position to invest in, and profit from, their economic enterprises.

With the benefits of its approach clearly demonstrated, the JP is currently scaling up and expanding its intersector model.