Book Detail

Author:  PECDAR  
Publisher:  PECDAR
Date:  01/08/1995
Price:  $ 0.00 

Introduction

The Agriculture Institutional and Policy Study was sponsored by the Palestinian Economic Council for Development and Reconstruction (PECDAR) to provide a framework for future growth in the agriculture sector, based on the strategy of this sector formulated by Palestinians. The focus of the study is on institutions and policies needed for sustainable growth in agriculture. The study was funded by the Technical Assistance Trust Fund (TATF), which is administered by the World Bank on behalf of donors.

The objectives of the study are to: (a) propose policies and measures in support of the sectoral strategy referred to above; (b) define the essential core services and functions that are needed within the framework of the strategy; (c) propose an organizational structure for the Ministry of Agriculture, taking into consideration the roles of the private and public sectors and NGOs in the provision of these services; (d) identify needs and propose a plan for human resource development to ensure the efficient delivery of services; (e) identify and propose specific investments to provide these services, giving both investment and recurrent costs; and (f) propose a plan for the implementation of recommendations.  

The background to this study and the general and individual terms of reference for its conduct and content are given in Annex 0.1.

The fisheries sub sector was not covered by the study since it was the subject of intensive investigation by other donors. Nevertheless, proposals for activities and/or investments in infrastructure and a pilot project, to supplement proposals of these other investigations, are put forward. As for rural finance, which was not reviewed separately, it was decided that proposals for revitalizing the financial sector in general would also apply to agriculture, and would be covered under ongoing initiatives (such as the proposed Private Sector Development Project).

A task force consisting of local and expatriate consultants was recruited by PECDAR to carry out the study. Fieldwork commenced on October 17, 1994, and extended over a three-week period. The task force visited the main agricultural areas in the West Bank and Gaza strip, and met Palestinian officials, Non Government Organization (NGOs), farmers, and businessmen. The task force wishes to express its sincere appreciation and thanks to Sami Tarazi, Director of Technical Assistance and Training, PECDAR, for his assistance and advice throughout the study preparation and review. The task force also wishes to thank Azzam Tubaileh, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, for meeting with and giving guidance to the task force. The task force wishes to acknowledge the assistance provided by the following persons: Jad Ishaq, Director, ARIJ; Ismael Daiq, General Director, PARC; Naim Abu Hummos, Deputy Secretary for Higher Education, Ministry of Education; Mohamed Rayes, Director General of Agriculture, Gaza; Adel Ibragheet, Director of Agriculture, Jericho; Omar Daoudi, National Program Officer, UNDP; Daoud Istambouli, Technical Director, Orient House; and Rex Schulz, Director, CDP. Last but not least, special thanks are due to Ms. Ellen Hanania, who devoted endless hours to provide logistical support, and made the lives of the task force much easier.