The SRTF Approves an Initiative to Foster Women's Empowerment, Support IDPs and Ensure Long-Term Sustainability in Deir-ez-Zor
Amman – Thursday, 25 January 2024 - The SRTF’s Management Committee (MC) approved a new initiative; “Enhancing Shelter and Livelihood in Deir-ez-Zor Governorate” that focuses on shelter rehabilitation, providing agricultural support and promoting community resilience through Cash-for-Work (CfW) activities, with a specific emphasis on empowering women and assisting returnees and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).
The initiative's primary goal is to restore and upgrade living conditions by rehabilitating up to 1,000 houses in four targeted locations in Deir-ez-Zor, with a particular focus on female-headed households. During the conflict, these houses have sustained significant infrastructure damage, exacerbating economic challenges and creating unsafe living conditions for the most vulnerable, including IDPs, women, children, and the elderly. Additionally, returnees from one refugee camp in Northeast Syria, in particular, encountered different challenges in reintegrating into their home communities, further complicating the situation.
The rehabilitation activities involve civil works, the provision of potable water, sanitation improvements, and electrical upgrades. The initiative benefits approximately 8,550 residents currently residing in the selected houses, representing a diverse demographic, including women, children, elders, and mainly returnee IDPs. Notably, 55% of the total beneficiaries are women.
An additional 850 houses are planned to receive agricultural assistance to promote sustainable livelihoods. This includes small-scale agricultural yards for 800 houses and the introduction of modern agricultural techniques, such as hydroponic units, in 50 houses. In the selection criteria, the focus on women-headed households aims to empower and support these families in rebuilding their lives.
Furthermore, engaging the local community through Cash-for-Work (CfW) activities is a key component of this initiative; up to 2,000 individuals, including returnees/IDPs, will be recruited, providing temporary income and aiding in community development. Female inclusion is prioritised to ensure a gender-inclusive approach.
The Director General of the SRTF Eng. Hani Khabbaz conveyed his deep pride in the initiative, stating, "I am proud of this new initiative; we are rebuilding homes for a brighter future for the people of Deir-ez-Zor. This initiative incorporates essential elements such as providing access to cash-for-work opportunities and offering support for women engaged in agricultural practices. These aspects support long-term sustainability through the stimulation of local economies, the enhancement of community resilience, and the introduction of eco-friendly hydroponic techniques."
Upon completion, the EUR 2.4 million initiative is expected to rehabilitate 1,000 houses, support 800 houses with agricultural initiatives, and install hydroponic units in 50 houses during its six-month life cycle, benefitting a total of 10,550 individuals. Indirectly, the initiative is expected to benefit 56,240 of the people and IDPs living in the four targeted communities.
For more information on this intervention, please see:
Enhancing Shelter and Livelihood in Deir-ez-Zor Governorate
For further information on the SRTF, please visit:
Media outlets may contact:
Linkedin 
Twitter
Site Map