Improving irrigation for date palm cultivation in Palestine: EU-funded MEDISS project presented to 30 beneficiaries

Monther Hind, director general of the Palestinian Wastewater Engineers Group (PWEG) and project manager of MEDISS, has met with the Palestinian beneficiaries of the project in Jericho, namely the Palm Farm Cooperatives Association and its President Mr Ghazi Zahir.

MEDISS project, 'Mediterranean Integrated System for Water Supply', addresses the issue of improving the quality of saline groundwater in the Mediterranean area, opening alternative irrigation options for higher quality and more diversified cultivations (dates, citrus, etc.).

According to the features and specific needs of the partner areas, MEDISS will test innovative solutions in the use of treated wastewater and desalination of brackish water. Specific awareness initiatives for end-users will challenge their reluctance toward non-conventional water resources (NCWR) and train them on Best Agricultural Practices.

On the longer term, the project will contribute to reducing stress on freshwater, as well as costs for water supply. At the same time, higher productivity and diversification of crops will increase food security and income for farmers. Local communities and institutions will be empowered, contributing to behavioural change on the use of NCW and on environmentally and economically sustainable development.