Caritas Jerusalem’s Secretary General Mr. Anton Asfar, has taken part in the Steering Committee meeting for the ongoing AECID-funded project titled, “Enhancing Community Engagement through Inclusive and Sustainable Socio-Economic Development in Bethlehem Governorate”. The project, which spans from March 2024 to March 2026, is being implemented in close cooperation with the Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture, local municipalities, academic institutions, and civil society organizations in collaboration with Caritas Española.

Held in Bethlehem, the meeting brought together key implementing partners and stakeholders to assess progress, discuss challenges, and align on the strategic steps ahead. Mr. Asfar reaffirmed Caritas Jerusalem’s commitment to the project’s mission, emphasizing the importance of inclusive development that empowers marginalized groups, promotes food security, and strengthens the resilience of small-scale producers and entrepreneurs.

The committee reviewed achievements under the project’s core components, which include:

• Improving the competitiveness of small and medium-sized agricultural enterprises,
• Expanding opportunities for youth and women entrepreneurs,
• Providing technical and vocational training aligned with market needs, and
• Enhancing local participation in decision-making processes.

Updates presented during the session highlighted concrete accomplishments such as the rehabilitation and cultivation of over 27.5 dunums of land, the distribution of agricultural equipment to livestock farmers in the southern villages of Bethlehem, and ongoing capacity-building workshops in sustainable farming practices, herbal production, and fruit tree cultivation. The vocational component, delivered in collaboration with the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce, includes training in sectors such as hospitality, AI and data analysis, electric and hybrid vehicle maintenance, and graphic design.

A special focus was placed on promoting youth entrepreneurship. As part of this effort, 30 business projects—15 in early stages and 15 in advanced development—were selected through a competitive process involving Caritas Jerusalem, Bethlehem University, and the local chamber of commerce. The next phase will involve the assignment of expert consultants to support each project with tailored business plans and training.

The Steering Committee concluded with a shared commitment to advancing the project’s next steps, which include finalizing vocational trainings, launching new agricultural market initiatives, introducing cooperative branding, and strengthening public engagement in local development.

Caritas Jerusalem remains deeply committed to supporting inclusive development efforts that uplift local communities and promote dignity, sustainability, and hope across the Bethlehem Governorate.