São Tomé invests $18.9 Million in irrigation, water, and agricultural resilience

São Tomé invests $18.9 Million in irrigation,water,and agricultural resilience

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In São Tomé and Príncipe,where four in ten people depend directly on agriculture and fisheries,extreme weather events have reduced crop yields by up to 30% over the past decade. The PRIASA III Project,with a total budget of $18.9 million,aims to boost agricultural and fisheries resilience against climate shocks.

Funding comes from the Global Environment Facility (GEF),the African Development Fund (ADF),and a $700,000 local in-kind contribution from the government and beneficiaries. “Agriculture and fisheries are pillars of food security and economic stability. This project will help producers adapt to climate impacts,” said Pietro Toigo,Country Manager for São Tomé and Príncipe at the African Development Bank (AfDB).

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The project will construct and rehabilitate ponds,tanks,and water storage systems,install drip irrigation,solar pumps,and irrigation kits,and introduce soil and water conservation techniques. Rural roads will be rehabilitated,agro-processing units strengthened,and financial incentives provided to farmers,with a focus on women and youth.

“Developing sustainable value chains will create jobs,increase income,and improve livelihoods,particularly for women and young people,” said Neeraj Vij,AfDB Regional Sector Manager.

Capacity building will include training for government officials,local leadership councils,and a knowledge management system to replicate best practices across the country and other African island states. The Ministry of Agriculture,Fisheries,and Rural Development will implement the project,with the African Development Bank serving as the coordinating agency.