On 19 May 2024, representatives from the Jordan Growth Multi-Donor Trust Fund (MDTF), including notable figures such as H.E. Tarik Khan, the Ambassador of Canada, H.E. Espen Lindbæck, the Ambassador of Norway, and The World Bank's Resident Representative, Holly Welborn Benner, participated in two significant field visits in Amman. The first visit was to the Central Market in Amman and the second visit was to the National Aid Fund (NAF).

The aim of these visits was to witness firsthand the transformative impact of the support provided by the MDTF to enhance economic, environmental, and livelihood aspects, highlighting Jordan's commitment to sustainable and inclusive development.

Exploring Agricultural Progress at the Central Market

The field visit commenced with a visit to the Central Market in Amman, where we observed the determined efforts to progress Jordan’s agricultural value chain. Through support from the MDTF, The World Bank, and the Reform Secretariat at The Ministry of Planning and International Cooperation (Jordan), an initiative has been undertaken to conduct a preliminary analysis and mapping to evaluate the current situation at the market. This analysis provides critical insights into future aspirations and opportunities for growth.

Looking ahead, we are focused on modernizing and elevating agricultural services, and continuing stakeholder engagement. This collaborative approach, involving the Ministry of Agriculture, Greater Amman Municipality, and other key entities, ensures that our reforms are inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.

Dr. Mervat al Mhairat, the first woman to serve as City Manager Deputy for Health and Agricultural Affairs at the Central Market, remarked: "This is the first time since the market's establishment in 1996 that we are receiving actual support for development. We are moving beyond traditional practices, partnering with the private sector, and enhancing services for citizens, farmers, and retailers. Our goal is to improve the market's economic, environmental, and health aspects through better organization, packaging, and data validation."

Empowering Lives through the National Aid Fund

Following the visit to the Central Market, we proceeded to the National Aid Fund (NAF) to witness the impactful implementation of Jordan’s Cash Transfer Program.

Since 2018, MDTF support has been pivotal in expanding and enhancing Jordan's social safety nets. The NAF’s Cash Transfer Program, the largest in MENA, has modernized and digitized its operations, ensuring transparency and efficiency. According to World Bank analysis, Jordan's Unified Cash Transfer program, backed by MDTF, has the highest redistributive impact in the government’s budget, significantly reducing inequality and poverty.

During the COVID-19 crisis, the NAF program emerged as a lifeline, delivering emergency cash transfers to over 397,000 households, proving to be vital for those hardest hit by the economic fallout.

With a focus on equitable access, the Cash Transfer Program allows households to register for assistance both in person and online. It has also introduced digital payment methods, amplifying the program’s impact on the most vulnerable and all Jordanians.

The Director General of the National Aid Fund, Khitam Al-Shinikat, remarked during the visit: "Through the implementation of the unified cash transfer program at the National Aid Fund, we've expanded access to vital social protection programs for the most vulnerable families. This includes refining our targeting equation, establishing a unified national registry, and facilitating digital payment systems. Furthermore, our efforts extend beyond mere aid provision; we're committed to empowering NAF's beneficiaries economically to build sustainable livelihoods."

Economic reforms cannot truly succeed without strengthening social safety nets in any society. 

Paving the Way for Sustainable Development

These field visits underscore Jordan's commitment to sustainable and prosperous agricultural development. By empowering lives and transforming agriculture, Jordan is making significant strides towards achieving its socioeconomic and environmental goals. Through continued collaboration and investment in innovative solutions, Jordan is poised to build a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future for generations to come.

You can access the photos here: Field Visits | Flickr