FAO, Republic of Moldova join forces to better train and support farmers

The agriculture sector in the Republic of Moldova, a cornerstone of the national economy, faces many diverse challenges. Climate change, rural–urban migration and limited access to information and new technologies pose real problems in the country, and smallholder farmers often don’t have the support they need to apply sustainable agricultural practices and increase productivity.

Recognizing this urgent need, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry of the Republic of Moldova today signed a new project agreement aimed at strengthening agricultural extension and advisory services to make it easier for farmers to receive crucial information, advice and training opportunities.

“This project is a significant step towards building a stronger and more sustainable agricultural sector in the Republic of Moldova,” said Raimund Jehle, FAO Representative in the Republic of Moldova, who attended the signing ceremony. “By supporting local agricultural associations and encouraging a variety of organizations to work together in providing agricultural extension and advisory services, we can ensure that farmers have access to the knowledge and information they need to increase their productivity and improve their livelihoods.”

The project will focus on improving the provision of agricultural information and support to farmers, empowering local agricultural organizations – called Chambers of Agriculture – to better respond to their needs and provide relevant advice. The project will unite various organizations and experts to offer a wider range of services and will encourage farmers to participate in shaping the support they receive. It also will strengthen regional agricultural organizations to ensure that support is customized to address the unique challenges and opportunities in different areas of the country.

The Republic of Moldova is pleased to participate with FAO on this project, said Ludmila Catlabuga, Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry, noting that the Parliament soon will adopt a new law on the organization and functioning of the Chambers of Agriculture.

“Farmers are eagerly awaiting this reform and increasingly ask us when these structures will be established,” Catlabuga said, “already aware of the importance of training and consultancy for the development of their activities.”

The project, with a budget of USD 250 000, will be implemented through December 2027.