By Stacia VanDyne | Program Communications
In Sudan’s North Kordofan State, communities participating in the Near East Foundation’s project to improve livelihoods continue to benefit from important skills and opportunities gained through our work – in spite of growing challenges in the region.
The microcredit fund we helped establish is successfully supporting community members – providing them with financing to undertake activities that have increased their incomes, improved production, and protected local gum arabic (acacia) trees.
A total of 24 new projects have been launched by community members over the past several months in four villages. Combined with an average 20% increase in gum arabic production, some farmers have increased their incomes by as much as 900 Sudanese Pounds (SDG) – or $200 – per month.
These microcredit loans continue to have a high rate of repayment. When the funds are repaid, more money can be lent to community members for additional projects that improve livelihoods.
These improvements come at a critical time in our partner communities. Because of ongoing conflict in neighboring South Kordofan State, many nomads and pastoralists have traveled to North Kordofan – placing an increasing strain on their natural resources.
NEF’s work with gum arabic producer associations has developed the capacity of participating communities to constructively manage and protect their community’s natural resources. There's a growing public awareness about the importance of acacia trees, and the communities continue to establish protected forest areas around their villages.
Your support to vulnerable gum arabic farmers in North Kordofan helps build peace and promote sustainable livelihoods in Sudan. Thank you!
By Sarah Peterson | Program Officer
By Stacia VanDyne | Program Communications
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