Exploring Georges N. Frem Foundation’s Empowering Initiatives in Lebanon
During a recent trip to Lebanon, Dr Mushtaq Memon, We-Empower Vice President – Livestock, visited with We-Empower partner, The Georges N. Frem Foundation (GNFF) http://www.georgesnfrem.org/ Dr Memon was in Beirut as a presenter to the Beirut International Veterinary Conference and he was able to extend his trip at the invitation of Ms Noubia Gribi, Head of Programs at GNFF, Lebanon.
Witnessing Sustainable Farming and Youth Empowerment at Georges N. Frem Foundation
Dr. Memon started his visit at the foundation headquarters where Noubia introduced him to GNFF departmental staff members. Mushtaq was impressed with their enthusiasm and their dedication to their projects and the individuals who benefit from them. One of the GNFF programs that was particularly impressive was a unique initiative of the Foundation to provide transportation for youth to public university and educational institutions around the city. This program helps ensure that students stay in school even if they don’t have the resources needed to get to class.
In addition to meeting GNFF employees in their headquarters, Mushtaq visited the Foundation’s demonstration farm where hands-on training is provided to GNFF beneficiaries as well as R&D is conducted. The skills taught include beekeeping, pruning fruit trees, composting, mulching, innovative ways of growing organic fruits and vegetables, intercropping with medicinal and aromatic plants, and other practices tailored to the climate and soils in Lebanon.
Empowering Youth through GNFF: Inspiring Change and Growth in Lebanon
Ms. Gribi also took Dr. Memon to visit a store which sells products produced by local farmers. The store owner mentioned that the products on display were sourced from about 700 farmers. This visit helped Mushtaq better understand the complete value chain, from production to marketing.
A trip into the countryside allowed Dr. Memon to meet with Paul Akl in Jbeil, a longtime beneficiary of GNFF’s programs. Paul has been able to expand his apple orchard and improve his product marketing with GNFF’s training and assistance. He is also working to improve his goat herd, having imported milk goats, Paul’s milk production has greatly increased. Next he wants to import Boer goat genetics to start a goat meat business. It was very heartening to have Paul’s 18 year old son join the conversation. He seemed to be well-informed about the aspirations of his generation and spoke of the benefits of staying in rural Lebanon.
Connecting with GNFF Foundation: Unveiling the Impact of Sustainable Farming Practices
The team at GNFF organized a visit for Mushtaq to see a herd of 1000 goats in Qartaba, Mount Lebanon. During conversations with the herders , Dr. Memon was able to get a good understanding of what additional knowledge and skills would be needed to improve production and decrease mortality of young goats which is hindering the sector’s growth. These are exactly the areas of expertise found at We-Empower. Perhaps there are more opportunities for GNFF and We-Empower to collaborate on herd improvement and youth empowerment programs.
Acknowledgements: Dr Memon’s travel between the US and Lebanon and 3 nights stay, related to the Beirut International Conf was supported by Lebanon Veterinary Association. The additional 3 days stay in Beirut was supported by Georges N. Frem Foundation.