Product Description

Executive Summary:

AQUA EQUITY aims to improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Punjab, Pakistan, by enhancing equitable access to agricultural water, increasing productivity, and promoting sustainable water management practices. The project will benefit 5,000 farmers, improving their incomes by 25% and agricultural productivity by 30%.

Objectives:

1. Improve equitable access to agricultural water for 5,000 smallholder farmers in Punjab, Pakistan
2. Increase agricultural productivity by 30% through efficient water use practices
3. Enhance incomes of smallholder farmers by 25% through improved agricultural productivity
4. Strengthen farmer organizations to manage water resources sustainably

Methodology:

1. Conduct a baseline study to assess current water use practices and farmer needs
2. Develop and implement sustainable agricultural water management plans
3. Improve water infrastructure, including irrigation systems and water storage facilities
4. Provide training and capacity-building programs for farmers and farmer organizations
5. Establish water user associations to manage water resources equitably

Expected Outcomes:

1. Increased equitable access to agricultural water for smallholder farmers
2. Improved agricultural productivity and incomes for smallholder farmers
3. Enhanced sustainability of agricultural water management practices
4. Strengthened farmer organizations and water user associations

Budget: $1,500,000, broken down into:

1. Personnel and training ($300,000)
2. Water infrastructure development ($500,000)
3. Equipment and materials ($200,000)
4. Monitoring and evaluation ($100,000)
5. Contingency fund ($400,000)

Timeline: 24 months, with the following milestones:

1. Baseline study and project design (6 months)
2. Water infrastructure development (9 months)
3. Training and capacity-building (6 months)
4. Project evaluation and scaling up (3 months)

Partnerships:

1. Punjab Agriculture Department
2. Farmer organizations (e.g., Pakistan Farmers’ Association)
3. Local NGOs (e.g., Strengthening Participatory Organization)

Sustainability:

1. Strengthened farmer organizations and water user associations
2. Improved water infrastructure and management practices
3. Enhanced capacity of farmers and local authorities
4. Integration with existing agricultural development programs

Monitoring and Evaluation:

1. Baseline study
2. Regular monitoring of project activities
3. Mid-term evaluation
4. Final evaluation