Near East Foundation

Approaching agriculture as part of a broader system of livelihood and land use, NEF works with smallholders to increase profits and sustainability. NEF provides training in new techniques for soil and water conservation, introduces new food crops and production methods, and facilitates market linkages. To improve local capacity to manage and share resources, NEF helps communities harness non-conventional water resources, manage forests and fisheries for sustainable use, and restore wetlands and rangelands. NEF’s holistic approach combines technical training with development of local natural resource governance systems and institutions, and advocacy for policy changes.

NEF has focused on identifying and planting crops suitable for central Mali’s changing weather patterns, as well as diversifying production to insure sustainability even under volatile climate conditions. NEF has helped farmers gain new skills in improved soil and water management and cultivation techniques, establish collective market gardens and orchards, and settle land use disputes. NEF works with local engineers to expand community water management and irrigation systems, including rainwater harvesting for irrigation of rice and other crops.

A pioneer in the use of "local conventions," NEF has long been a leader in the governance of collective natural resources such as forests, rangelands, aquatic grasslands, and fisheries. NEF has worked with community-based organizations and local governments to develop over 50 landscape-level natural resource management plans to guide training and investment to create economic opportunities while ensuring sustainable use.