September 1, 2021

Robinson Agri- Countering resource mismanagement with holistic irrigation and farming solutions

Robinson Agri 1200x628

Robinson Agri 1200x628

The Water and Energy for Food Grand Challenge (WE4F) Middle East and North Africa Regional Innovation Hub (MENA RIH), is an international partnership among the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, the European Union, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Government of the Netherlands, and Sweden through the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency. WE4F supports the most promising and innovative companies and organizations working to produce more food with less water and more efficient energy resources. Meet Robinson Agri, one of the selected Lebanese innovators and QOOT Cluster member.

CHALLENGE

In Lebanon, onion crops are irrigated using sprinklers and gravity surface irrigation systems, and crops are grown using pollinated seeds, which consume a high quantity of water and energy, in addition to a lower crop yield. Due to severe mismanagement and misuse of natural resources, Lebanon is highly water stressed. The country grapples with environmental pollution and a growing waste crisis. On the economic side, a lack of financial support and an unfavorable business environment make it challenging for farmers to produce competitively.

SOLUTION

Robinson Agri is providing a complete solution : including a complete irrigation system + hybrid seeds + technical support and financial support in order to improve quality and yield, rationing use of agriculture inputs and natural resources (water) thus reducing the costs and eventually increasing the income of their clients. Only a low percentage (<9%) of women are involved In agriculture activities. Women are mainly there to support their husbands or as workers in the field.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Raghid Jarrah

Raghid Jarrah