From Strength to Self-Sufficiency: Women in Ma'an Thrive with SPUAR Initiative

In the heart of southern Jordan, a remarkable story of empowerment is unfolding. The SPUAR Initiative, a project implemented by FAO and funded by the Italian Government through the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), has transformed the lives of 60 women headed households in Ma'an Governorate.

Through a competitive selection process, these women were chosen to receive life-changing support.  Where SPUAR initiative provided them with capacity-building training, equipping them with the skills they needed to succeed in food processing ventures. 

Imagine women turning local ingredients into delicious jams, sun-dried tomatoes, and tangy apple cider vinegar. In addition to dairy products, honey, pickles, and pastries!

But the SPUAR initiative did not stop there. To kickstart their businesses, the initiative awarded grants totaling 1800 Jordanian Dinars. This crucial financial boost allowed them to either expand existing endeavors or launch brand new ones.

The program offered additional training in business planning, basics to marketing, and financial literacy. Armed with this knowledge, these women were empowered to make decisions and navigate the world of business with confidence.

Furthermore, SPUAR initiative partnered with the Agricultural Credit Corporation (ACC) to offer a zero-interest loan program. This invaluable resource provided the women with the means to enhance their operations and reach customers beyond their immediate locations.

The impact on these women's lives is truly inspiring.  They've not only secured their own livelihoods but are also able to support their families, ensuring access to quality healthcare and education.  Their delicious creations grace the shelves of local shops in Ma'an, and they've even established a communal production kitchen to further streamline their success.

But SPUAR's vision extends beyond economic empowerment. The initiative conducted sessions on social protection, specifically focusing on social security registration and its benefits. This newfound knowledge equips them with the understanding of their rights and those of their potential employees as their businesses flourish.

The SPUAR Initiative is a shining example of how targeted support can unlock a world of opportunity. Here, in the heart of Ma'an Governorate, women are no longer just surviving; they are thriving, building a brighter future for themselves and their families.