AVANSE Quarterly Report on October – December 2013

The program is funded by the U.S.-Haiti Feed the Future Partnership and is implemented by DAI. AVANSE focuses on increasing agricultural productivity, improving watershed stability, strengthening agricultural markets, and enhancing the capacity of local organizations. Agricultural productivity in the region has increased, with crop yields improving significantly. The program has achieved this through the implementation of improved production technologies and systems, strengthened extension of agriculture technologies, increased access to inputs, and enhanced management capacity of water-user associations. For example, more than 2,500 farmers received training in sustainable agriculture techniques, resulting in a 60% increase in yield from demonstration plots. Watershed stability has also improved, with critical slopes stabilized through farmer-level investment and crisis-management capacity strengthened. The program has established watershed governance bodies at the sub-watershed level, enabling more effective management of natural resources. Additionally, public-private partnerships have been established to support the implementation of watershed management plans. Agricultural markets in the region have been strengthened, with improved access to storage and processing facilities, increased access to financial products, and enhanced market information systems. The program has also strengthened relationships in targeted value chains, enabling farmers to access better prices for their produce. Furthermore, the capacity of local organizations has been enhanced, enabling them to respond more effectively to the needs of rural communities. The program has made significant progress in implementing infrastructure projects, including the construction and rehabilitation of irrigation systems and the stabilization of critical slopes. Environmental compliance has been ensured through the implementation of measures to protect natural resources and prevent environmental degradation. Monitoring and evaluation have been conducted regularly to assess the program's progress and identify areas for improvement. Gender inclusion has been a key focus of the program, with specific activities implemented to promote the participation of women in agricultural activities. The program has tracked gender inclusion against objectives, with significant progress made in increasing the participation of women in farmer field schools and other program activities. Key actions for the next quarter include continuing to support the implementation of watershed management plans, strengthening the capacity of local organizations, and promoting gender inclusion in agricultural activities. The program has also made significant progress in implementing farmer field schools, with training provided to farmers on improved agricultural practices. The program has also established partnerships with other organizations to support the implementation of agricultural projects. Overall, the AVANSE program has made significant progress in improving the livelihoods of rural communities in Haiti, with a focus on increasing agricultural productivity, improving watershed stability, strengthening agricultural markets, and enhancing the capacity of local organizations.