The Minister of Agriculture discusses with Oxfam strengthening the partnership and responding to the needs of the agricultural sector

Ramallah: March 16, 2026

Minister of Agriculture, Professor Riziq Slaimiya, met with the Director of the Economic Justice Program at Oxfam International, Mr. Mustafa Tmaizi, to discuss ways to strengthen the strategic relationship and enhance communication and joint coordination in light of the current challenges facing the agricultural sector. They emphasized the importance of intensifying efforts during this phase, which requires a greater focus on relief efforts and supporting the resilience of farmers on their land.

During the meeting, Mr. Tmaizi affirmed Oxfam's pride in its long-standing partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture. He stressed the organization's commitment to working in accordance with the Ministry's policies and priorities, and its keenness to enhance coordination and continuous communication to ensure integrated efforts and a tangible impact on the agricultural sector. He also indicated the possibility of the organization contributing to supporting emergency response efforts during this phase, in order to meet the urgent needs of farmers.

For his part, Minister Slaimiya reviewed the ministry's top priorities in light of the difficult political and economic circumstances facing Palestine. He emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation with international partners to support the resilience of the agricultural sector. He also noted the importance of preparing a specialized study on the agricultural sector's contribution to the Palestinian national product, reflecting the sector's vital role in supporting the national economy.

The minister also addressed the challenges facing the olive sector as a result of escalating Israeli decisions targeting this vital sector. He further highlighted the importance of the EU-funded wastewater treatment project being implemented in cooperation with Oxfam, stressing the need to include rainwater harvesting components within this project to enhance the utilization of water resources and improve water management in the agricultural sector.

The importance of supporting the cultivation of field and fodder crops was also emphasized, given their essential role in enhancing food security and supporting farmers' resilience, especially under the current circumstances that necessitate directing efforts towards strengthening local agricultural production.