A multi-stakeholder workshop in Beirut brings together key actors to promote more inclusive, practical and sustainable solutions for Lebanon’s agricultural sector
On 3 September 2026, under the patronage of H.E. the Lebanese Minister of Agriculture, Istituto per la Cooperazione Universitaria (ICU), in collaboration with Consumer Lebanon, organised a multi-stakeholder workshop in Beirut focused on partnerships in innovation and scientific research for sustainable agriculture in Lebanon.
The event brought together 64 participants representing a wide range of stakeholders, including government institutions, universities and research centres, farmers’ organisations, cooperatives, private-sector actors, NGOs, international organisations, experts, students, women-led cooperatives and rural women entrepreneurs.
The workshop provided an opportunity to present the achievements, innovative approaches and lessons learned from four PRIMA-EU projects implemented in Lebanon: Water4Med, FUSION, WaterMellon and NUSTALGIC. Through a series of presentations, a technical panel and an interactive plenary discussion, participants exchanged knowledge and experiences, explored key challenges and opportunities, and discussed practical recommendations to strengthen agricultural research, innovation, policy support and cooperation.
A key message emerging from the discussions was the need to promote practical, affordable, inclusive and scalable solutions that respond to farmers’ needs. Such solutions can contribute to improving agricultural productivity and livelihoods, strengthening value chains, and promoting the more efficient use of water, land and energy.
The workshop also highlighted the importance of stronger coordination and collaboration between research institutions, public authorities, the private sector and agricultural communities. Building stronger links between these actors is essential to ensure that research and innovation respond effectively to the realities and needs of farmers and rural communities.
The discussions were also aligned with the priorities of Lebanon’s National Agriculture Strategy 2026–2035 and the objectives of the PRIMA programme, particularly in promoting sustainable, resilient and innovative approaches to agriculture and water management.
The workshop represented an important opportunity to foster dialogue among different stakeholders and to strengthen partnerships that can contribute to a more sustainable, inclusive and resilient agricultural sector in Lebanon.
