National Programme for Sustainable Human Development

This programme, which is funded by IFAD in the form of a grant under the Debt Sustainability Framework, has the aim of reducing poverty in the poorest rural zones of the three islands of the Union of the Comoros, incorporating environmental protection, diversified agricultural production and increased productivity. In this way, the programme intends increasing household incomes while curbing the irresponsible exploitation and degradation of natural resources.

To achieve its objectives, the programme proposes joining forces with FAO to revitalize agricultural training centres under a new type of management involving farmers’ organizations, local development associations and private-sector intermediary organizations, with the aim of providing better training for inhabitants in agricultural and good governance techniques, and enabling them to gain greater autonomy in the management of local development.

Moreover, the protection of catchment areas and coastal zones through a system of terraces and hedges will improve soil fertility and local production, and also in the long run regenerate marine resources.

Lastly, the programme seeks to capitalize on funds remitted by emigrant Comorians, offering the diaspora opportunities to invest in local development activities through the possibilities offered by the network of Savings and Credit Associations (MECKs).

Initially planned for one or two zones on each island, these activities will then be transposed to other regions through exchanges between farmers’ organizations and field visits.

Source: IFAD