UNICEF-funded Azem Project launches agroecology business park in Madaba

AMMAN — The Azem Project, funded by UNICEF, has implemented the first agroecology business park, a startup incubator for young people, in Madaba.

The Azem Project provides economic support to create jobs and self-employment opportunities.

The Business Development Centre (BDC), the Madaba Governorate, and Keys for Sustainable Development Company have signed a partnership agreement to jointly implement theproject, according to a BDC statement.

The project targets young agricultural engineering graduates and job seekers looking for opportunities to develop their projects in the hydroponic sector.  

As part of the implementation process, the Azem Project team is responsible for purchasing and providing the necessary equipment and training. The Madaba Governorate in turn has provided a piece of land for the project centre, along with water and electric utilities and infrastructure services

The technical partner Keys for Sustainable Development will support the agricultural entrepreneurs at the business park to commercialise their products through a marketing platform.

BDC General Manager Ghaleb Hijazi said: “This initiative is a pioneer experiment for a new model of productive eco-business park that could be exported to other governorates and create income opportunities for young people.”

He also expressed gratitude for UNICEF’s financial support.

Ahmad Barakat Al Zuhair, president of the Greater Madaba Municipality Committee, said: “The municipality will be a true supporter of this initiative’s success, as such projects will reflect positively on the income of all the participants’ families.”

Thabit Al Nabulsi, founder of Keys for Sustainable Development, said: “This project aims to train newly graduated agricultural engineers and to raise local communities’ awareness about including women in the labour market through aquaculture.”