The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) on Monday joined Djibouti Prime Minister Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed, the World Bank Group and development partners to launch the Djibouti AgriConnect Compact. This initiative aims at transforming the country’s agri-food systems, creating jobs and improving the livelihoods of rural communities. The launch marks a significant step towards sustainable agricultural development in Djibouti.
AgriConnect is a World Bank Group initiative designed to help 300 million smallholder farmers worldwide move from subsistence to surplus production. The initiative focuses on strengthening agricultural ecosystems through stronger farmer organizations, improved market linkages, enhanced access to finance and digital solutions, and greater private sector participation across food systems. By adopting these strategies, the project seeks to make a lasting impact on agricultural productivity.
The Djibouti Compact will focus on livestock, horticulture and date palms value chains. These areas were identified by the Government of Djibouti and the World Bank as priorities due to their importance to the national economy and regional trade. By concentrating on these sectors, the compact aims to boost economic growth and enhance food security in the region.
Emime Ndihokubwayo, IFAD Country Director for Djibouti, highlighted the significance of AgriConnect for Djibouti. He stated that the initiative presents an important opportunity for IFAD to continue supporting the sustainable transformation of rural livelihoods in Djibouti. This aligns with IFAD's new country strategic opportunities programme for 2026–2031, which aims to promote rural development and improve living standards.
The AgriConnect initiative is expected to have a positive impact on rural women, men and young people in Djibouti. By creating a more productive, resilient and inclusive agricultural economy, the project will enable rural communities to participate in and benefit from the growth of the agricultural sector. This, in turn, will contribute to poverty reduction and improved livelihoods.
The collaboration between IFAD, the Government of Djibouti and the World Bank Group demonstrates a strong commitment to agricultural development and poverty reduction in Djibouti. The launch of the Djibouti AgriConnect Compact marks the beginning of a new phase of cooperation and investment in the country's agricultural sector. This partnership is expected to yield significant results in the coming years.
The World Bank Group's AgriConnect initiative has the potential to transform the agricultural landscape in Djibouti and beyond. With its focus on sustainable agricultural development, job creation and improved livelihoods, the project aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. As the project progresses, it will be closely monitored and evaluated to assess its impact and effectiveness.
Key points
- IFAD joins Government of Djibouti and World Bank to launch Djibouti AgriConnect Compact.
- The initiative aims to transform agri-food systems, create jobs and improve rural livelihoods.
- The project will focus on livestock, horticulture and date palms value chains.
