PESHAWAR: The USAID’s Economic Recovery and Development Activity (USAID-ERDA) on Monday handed over the control of the nine completed agricultural infrastructure projects to the farming communities of Safi and Ambar tehsils in Mohmand tribal district.

The development came during a special ceremony, which was attended by the representatives of USAID-ERDA, the local government and the community.

Officials said those interventions, which led to the irrigation of 200 acres of barren land in Ambar and Safi tehsils, would significantly improve agricultural productivity in the region.

They said the USAID-ERDA provided vegetable and maize seeds to farmers further supporting the programme’s goal of enhancing agricultural productivity.

On the occasion, additional deputy commissioner of Mohmand district Shakil Ahmad said the government appreciated the continued support of the USAID-ERDA in community development.

He said the infrastructure projects would have a lasting positive impact on the lives of farmers in Mohmand district.

“This project is a game-changer for our community,” he said.

Mr Ahmad said the improved watercourses and storage tanks would lead to efficient cultivation of land and better agricultural yields.

Malik Sahib Khan, a farmer in Ambar tehsil, praised the USAID-ERDA for its support to the community.

Water management specialist at the USAID-ERDA Engineer Behram Jan said the programme was committed to working with local communities to improve their livelihoods and build resilience.

“We are confident that these projects will empower the farmers of Mohmand district and contribute to the long-term development of the region,” he said.

Officials said most of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s population, including those living in the merged tribal districts, relied on agriculture and natural resources for livelihood.

They, however, said those sectors faced challenges due to inadequate water supply, inefficient water management, and poor resource utilization.

The officials said in response to those challenges, the USAID-ERDA had been actively working in Mohmand, Khyber, Buner, Kohat, Bajaur, Orakzai and Dera Ismail Khan districts to improve water management infrastructure and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Published in Dawn, March 12th, 2024