Small-scale farms as a way to restore the agricultural sector of the Gaza Strip

The situation in the region's agro-industrial sector is characterized by critical losses. According to the Gaza Government Media Office, more than 87% of agricultural land has been destroyed. The damage has also affected 8,700 water wells, over 7,700 farms involved in livestock and poultry production, and more than 87% of greenhouse areas. As a result, the annual production volume of fruit and vegetable crops has dropped from 524,000 to approximately 20,000 tons.

Nasser Deeb, Director General of the Agricultural Extension Department at the Gaza Ministry of Agriculture, emphasizes that the recovery of the industry requires a comprehensive approach. In addition to clearing the land of the aftermath of hostilities, it is necessary to carry out soil rehabilitation, restore irrigation networks and water wells, and provide farmers with seed, fertilizer, and equipment. Until these large-scale works are completed, full-scale cultivation of previous areas is impossible.

In current conditions, farmers are forced to adapt by renting small plots of land. For example, Mohammad al-Halabi, who previously cultivated 40,000 square meters, shifted to a 300-square-meter rented plot in Nuseirat due to the destruction of his fields in Jabalia. Although the current volume of harvest only partially covers the family's needs, it is an opportunity for the farmer to continue his professional activity.

Another example of successful adaptation is the experience of Mohammad Abdul Nasser Hassan al-Jadba. Having received financial support from a Belgian development fund, he built a greenhouse and established a nursery in Deir al-Balah. This allowed him to grow tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers, restore his income to a level of 3,000 shekels per month, and provide jobs for two employees. This case demonstrates the effectiveness of shifting to small-scale intensive farming to ensure self-employment and partial supply of food to local markets.