AMMAN, May 2015 – INVESTBANK, the leading bank in providing innovative banking solutions, continues its strategic partnership with the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) this year; supporting the second phase of their organic farming initiative in different villages within the Ajloun governorate. The initiative supports farmers growing organic produce through Al-Kifah Cooperative Association.

The announcement was made during the signing of a renewed Memorandum of Understanding between RSCN Director General Yehya Khaled and INVESTBANK CEO Muntaser Dawwas.

Supported by INVESTBANK, the project was launched three years ago to promote organic farming and support local communities by offering agricultural machinery and equipment including financing purchases of organic pesticide, organic crops, natural fertilizers and irrigation units.

The project also focused on developing the skills and know-how of Ajloun farmers in addition to training them on means to reduce wasted produce and adopt best practices in product packaging.

The first phase marked the birth of Al Shams Farmers’ Market: a venue promoting and selling organic produce outside Ajloun through unconventional marketing to help farmers increase their income by expanding their market reach. Products at Al Shams Farmers’ Market include fresh organic produce and natural foods featuring olive oil, dried legumes, herbs, jams and honey. The Farmers’ Market opens every Friday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at RSCN’s Wild Jordan in Jabal Amman.

The phase also included training on alternative farming methods that are eco-friendly and affordable. The second phase will focus on increasing production to ensure further growth and market outreach.

“We are proud of our unique partnership with the RSCN. Continuing on to the second phase is part of our belief in supporting sustainable development initiatives across the Kingdom, which in return supports the livelihoods of local communities and the national economy,” says Dawwas. “We strive to support medium to long term programs that are sustainable, beneficial and environment-friendly. Hence, increasing the number of farmers working in organic agriculture is pivotal given its positive health and conservational impact,” he explains.

“RSCN’s strategic partnership with INVESTBANK is exemplary both in scope and commitment. The bank has been an avid advocate and supporter of projects aimed at creating jobs across local communities in villages and areas surrounding RSCN’s reserves,” Khaled points out. “It is vital to promote awareness across the private sector in the hope of developing similar programs aimed at nature conservation and community empowerment,” he concludes.

It is worth mentioning that INVESTBANK is currently supporting 99 beneficiaries from the local community.