Compete Project Monthly Report, September 2012

The project's focus areas include agribusiness, tourism, and information and communications technology (ICT). In September 2012, the project achieved several key milestones. One of the notable accomplishments was the High-Tech Hub kickoff, which brought together over 400 young entrepreneurs, successful startups, and tech enthusiasts in Ramallah. This event aimed to inspire, lead, and innovate in the Palestinian tech sector. Additionally, the project supported Palestinian farmers, producers, and exporters to attend the World Food Tour in Moscow, where they developed business partnerships and promoted Palestinian agribusiness. The project also organized a study tour to Jordan, focusing on wastewater reuse in agriculture. The tour, which took place from September 1-6, aimed to raise awareness among local farmers about the environmental importance and economic benefits of using treated wastewater for irrigation. The group included representatives from the Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture, Palestinian Water Authority, and 15 Palestinian farmers from Deir Sharaf and Sabastiya. Experts from the Jordanian Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of the Environment, and Royal Scientific Society presented on the status, technologies, regulations, costs, and outcomes of using treated wastewater. The tour participants gained significant knowledge about treated wastewater, including witnessing the end-to-end process. The tour also highlighted the importance of creating a legal body to organize the farmer's community in Der Sharaf and Sabastiya to implement irrigation solutions like treated wastewater. The Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture officials confirmed their commitment to share the results of the experience and encourage safe usage of treated wastewater throughout the Palestinian territories. In addition to the study tour, the project supported two Palestinian Stone & Marble operators to attend the Marmomacc Trade Show in Verona. This trade show is a leading event for stone design and technology, providing opportunities for meetings and site visits to various sludge production facilities. The project also organized a Hotel Classification visit and meetings in Jordan, which aimed to build linkages and learn from the recent Jordanian Hotel Classification experience. Overall, the Compete Project has been actively promoting economic growth and development in the Palestinian territories through its focus areas of agribusiness, tourism, and ICT. The project's achievements in September 2012 demonstrate its commitment to supporting Palestinian businesses and entrepreneurs in developing new markets and partnerships.