MINDANAO SUSTAINABLE AGRARIAN AND AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
(MinSAAD : 2016)

Client: Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR)
Funding Source: JICA
Partner: Sanyu Consultants, Inc. (Lead Firm)
Contract duration: 2015 - 2016
Sample Activities and Themes: agribusiness development; social and environmental safeguards.

MinSAAD aims to engage agrarian reform beneficiary (ARB) farmers and their organizations in more profitable and sustainable income-generating activities, thereby increasing their income. This is done through the provision of agricultural and agri-business development support, rural infrastructure and capacity development in target settlement areas. DAR is the executing agency for the project while the Department of Public Works and Highways, National Irrigation Administration and concerned local government units are co-implementing agencies. Seven other agencies are collaborating agencies for the project.

Twelve settlement areas in seven provinces in Northern Mindanao, Davao Region and SOCCSKSARGEN are targeted for the project. OIDCI consultants were fielded for services in Agriculture, Agri-business and Agro-forestry Development, and Social and Environmental Monitoring. Among the services they provide are development of sustainable and competitive agribusiness models appropriate for existing and potential crops in the 12 settlements; preparation of industry studies; and facilitation of market linkaging. Other outputs are the development and preparation of climate change adaptation and risk reduction plans/measures, and preparation of information/advocacy materials on the preservation and restoration of ecological balance.

MINSAAD aims to contribute to the alleviation of poverty and promotion of peace and order in Mindanao through development of sustainable agricultural practices for ARBs.