INTRODUCTION
Emni Hail RDP is a rural development programme being implemented by Self Help Africa in Southern Eritrea. Work started in 2007 amongst communities living adjacent to SHA’s earlier Mendefera Project (2000-2006).
LOCATION
Emni Haili lies in Debub region of Southern Eritrea, close to the national border with Ethiopia. This region has an area of around 8,000 square kilometers, and its capital is Mendefera (Adi Ugri). Other towns Adi Keyh, Adi Quala, Dekemhare, Debarwa and Senafe.
ECONOMY
Subsistence agriculture is the main economic activity in Debub region, although shortage of water and rocky and poor soil make farm production challenging. The region has little industry, and relies heavily on the crops that are produced by local farmers – including teff, wheat, beans, mango and cactus fruit.
PROJECT OBJECTIVE
To improve food security of the targeted community by increasing crop production, extending the agricultural extension system, distributing early maturing seed varieties, promoting and establishing irrigated horticulture, and provision of essential agricultural inputs.
The project also seeks to conserve natural resources, promote agro- forestry, and expand water harvesting schemes and bee keeping.
Emni Haili RDP is also strengthening 5 women’s groups through training in savings and credit schemes, promoting improved fuel stove usage, and supporting gender and HIV/AIDS support projects.
PROJECT ACTIVITIES
Emni Haili RDP is working with 20,165 rural households in 44 villages in the Emnihailli area of southern Eritrea.
The project is increasing crop and food production by supporting the strengthening of existing agricultural extension services, by supporting the distribution of early maturing seed varieties and alternate crop types, by supporting the development or irrigated horticulture, and by strengthening the distribution system for agricultural inputs including seed and fertilizer.
The project is also working to conserve and enhance natural resources by promoting tree planting and agro-forestry, by supporting the construction of terracing to prevent erosion and soil run off, and by expanding water harvesting activities and alternate farm enterprises including beekeeping.
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