Climate resilience: Breathing life into the desert

In southern Jordan, Ma’an is known for its scorching heat, with summer temperatures exceeding 40°C, further intensifying the effects of climate change in the area. The city also faces severe economic challenges. The unemployment rate is 24.3% - the highest in Jordan - piling more pressure onto an existing uphill struggle.

News of World Vision Syria Response's project dedicated to climate resilience began circulating in communities. The Climate Resilience through Water Harvesting and Sustainable Agriculture project caught the attention of those who dream of turning rough conditions into a source of change and inspiration.

Our first story follows 41-year-old Jameel*, a devoted father who was determined to forge a better future for his family and community. He saw the opportunity and seized it. 

“I applied for the World Vision Syria Response project in Jerash hoping for an opportunity, and thank God, I got accepted as a cash-for-work worker. We received training from World Vision in planting and taking care of trees, which later became our daily task, where we would plant and water tress and clear weeds,” he begins.

For the father of six, this livelihood opportunity allowed him to reclaim his role as a providing father and husband. “Opportunities like this are rare, and even though it lasts only a few months, it makes a world of difference. It brings financial security, helps us cover our responsibilities, and lifts some of the weight off our shoulders."

"Every day, I travel over 25 kilometres just to get to work, but I still do it with motivation and purpose. Knowing that I can provide for my family and finally meet our needs keeps me going. This job gives me a sense of empowerment. I’m not just sitting at home feeling helpless; I’m learning, working, and doing something meaningful," he reflects.

But this project was more than just a paycheck; it carried the honourable goal of uplifting the environment and creating unity in the community.

“Every day, we dedicate ourselves to improving the environment. For me, my role wasn’t just about earning an income; it was a chance to make a real difference in my community and environment. We face a lot of droughts in Ma’an. When we plant, we are helping the environment and playing a role in reducing the effects of climate change. I feel proud to be part of this project," he announces. 

Jameel's experiences are full of kind words and hope: “I'm wishing that this project extends and expands. It revives and adds beauty to the area, uplifts our livelihoods and takes care of our environment."

Through the efforts of Jameel and 28 more people, over 2,400 trees were planted in Ma’an. But the efforts of World Vision Syria Response’s project didn’t end there.

Our second story is all about spreading awareness and empowering the voices of the local community for long lasting change. 35-year-old Hania* is one of the changemakers in her community, balancing her role as a mother of four and as a facilitator for World Vision’s environmental awareness sessions.

It all began when Hania first came across the opportunity to join the project on social media. Driven by curiosity and hope, she applied and was later accepted. Her journey towards making a difference had begun.

With training from World Vision’s team, she and five other women gained specialised knowledge on climate resilience and environmental sustainability, and she shared the material later with community members.

Reflecting on her role, Hania shares,“So many people in Ma’an know nothing about climate change. Now, we hold the keys to changing that reality. This project offers a space for 100 people to learn about ways they can take action and be part of a sustainable future.” 

Hania also highlighted a huge issue Ma’an faces and how the project aided in changing a sad reality, “We're facing a very high unemployment rate here in Ma’an, especially among women; sometimes doctors, engineers and teachers stay at home due to the lack of opportunities. This project gave me the chance to enhance my livelihood and provide for my children."

But the project also holds special meaning for Hania; it was a seed of purpose taking root in her heart: “I truly love my work and the work environment is amazing. Moreover, I gained a lot of skills, and my confidence skyrocketed. Before, I used to be shy and was too anxious to present in front of anyone, but this project allowed me to grow, find my voice, and conquer my fear of public speaking."

*Names have been changed to protect identities