NARC launches initiative to boost water harvesting strategy

AMMAN — The National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC) on Monday launched an initiative to develop the Jordanian water harvesting strategy that focuses on empowering youth and women. 

The project, in partnership with the Inter-Islamic Network on Water Resources Development and Management (INWRDAM), is funded by the Dutch government, according to the Jordan News Agency, Petra.

Khaled Abu Hammour, Director General of NARC, emphasised the centre's commitment to applying research and advanced technology to benefit the agricultural sector and promote sustainable development.

He highlighted ongoing projects aimed at empowering youth and women, including agricultural innovation incubators, automation of laboratory services, and efficient use of natural resources and renewable energy.

Regional crises have increased pressure on water resources due to growing demand, Abu Hammour noted, stressing that this situation requires effective management to ensure water sustainability.

Abu Hammour also called on all water harvesting stakeholders to work together to build a solid knowledge base and support relevant policies.

Marwan Raqad, CEO of INWRDAM, described water harvesting as a critical strategy for addressing Jordan's water challenges, noting that Jordan has a long history of water harvesting, including the historic Jawa Dam in the Badia region, one of the oldest known water harvesting solution.

Jordan receives about 8 billion cubic metres of rainfall annually, while consumption is estimated at 1.2 billion cubic metres, he noted.

Due to geological and climatic factors, a significant amount of this water is lost, he said highlighting the importance of effective water harvesting.

Raha Assaf, project coordinator at NACR, stressed that water harvesting is essential to address the effects of drought.