Beirut, Lebanon (Enmaeya News) — With 42% of Lebanese households facing food insecurity and imports supplying more than 75% of local food, Lebanon is ramping up efforts to revive its struggling agricultural sector. The Ministry of Agriculture, teaming up with agricultural engineers and experts, is driving key initiatives to strengthen local production and reduce dependence on imports.
H.E Minister of Agriculture Nizar Hani outlined four priorities: rehabilitating farms damaged by recent conflicts, launching a national agricultural extension program, improving marketing channels between farmers and consumers, and strengthening the role of agricultural engineers as essential coordinators of the sector.
Hani also stressed the need to regulate the widespread unmonitored sale of agricultural pesticides and medicines.
At a conference organized by the Beirut Engineers Syndicate, Hani announced plans to launch a new agricultural strategy in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
Victoria Dwalibi, head of the Engineers Syndicate’s Seventh Branch, highlighted the importance of integrating climate change adaptation into land use planning, updating land suitability maps, and establishing a national committee to coordinate sustainable agriculture policies.
Louis Lahoud, Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture, emphasized expanding the presence of agricultural engineers in pharmacies and supporting farmers amid economic challenges, rising costs, and climate pressures. Efforts are also underway to promote Lebanese products like olive oil and honey in new markets.
Fadi Hanna, head of the Beirut Engineers Syndicate, unveiled a pilot project launching advanced satellite-based monitoring tools and digital pest traps for sustainable farming over 100 hectares. The syndicate is also facilitating research partnerships and advocating for clear, science-based agricultural policies free from political interference.
Hanna called for transferring agricultural pharmacy oversight to the Engineers Syndicate to better support farmers and advance Lebanon’s agricultural recovery.
