Millions Reach New Financial and Food Security Milestones

Sep 27 , 2025

Ministry of Finance and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) reaffirmed their commitment to transforming rural communities during a Joint Project Portfolio Review. Semereta Sewasew, State Minister of Finance, and IFAD Country Director Mawira Chitima, alongside the DBE President and State Minister of Irrigation & Lowlands, highlighted initiatives boosting financial inclusion and food security. The Lowlands Livelihoods Resilience Project (LLRP) has reached 5 million people, while the Participatory Agriculture & Climate Transformation Programme (PACT) has supported 150,000 households. Officials stressed integrating climate-smart practices and sustainable rural financing for lasting impact. The review showcased the projects’ broad reach. The Rural Financial Intermediation Programme III (RUFIP III) has provided 13.5 million households with credit, savings, and financial services. Overall, IFAD’s support has benefited over 10 million people. The partnership has mobilised around 1.2 billion dollars in co-financing, including 277.4 million dollars from IFAD. The review also served as a platform to share best practices, strengthen implementation, and promote inclusive, innovative, and sustainable rural development nationwide.