Government invests in irrigation and supports farmers affected by extreme phenomena: combating desertification and drought - national priority

The Government of the Republic of Moldova, through the Agency for Intervention and Payments in Agriculture (AIPA), is implementing financial mechanisms that encourage investments in irrigation systems and the efficient use of water resources. This confirms that in our country, combating desertification and drought is a national priority, given the impact on agriculture, environment and economy.


"To support farmers in their adaptation efforts, in 2023, 132 farmers received subsidies amounting to 56.12 million lei for the post-investment measure 'Investments in irrigation systems and equipment'. In 2024, the number of applicants increased to 234 farmers, who submitted requests totaling 117.71 million lei. Furthermore, AIPA is also implementing the supplementary subsidy mechanism 'Encouraging the Use of Irrigation Systems', for which this year, there were 34 applicants, with a total amount requested of 11.3 million lei", explains the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry (MAIA).


At the same time, the Government of the Republic of Moldova has intervened with support for farmers affected by extreme phenomena. From the intervention fund, 100 million lei were allocated to compensate for the losses suffered by farmers affected by the severe drought and heat in 2024. 936 farmers benefited from the support.

Practical solutions for protecting land and increasing crop resilience

1. Drip irrigation is efficient in saving water and increasing crop yield;

2. Installing drainage systems to prevent water stagnation and protect roots;

3. Practicing crop rotation and planting shelterbelts to maintain soil health;

4. Organic farming and correct application of natural fertilizers are necessary for restoring soil fertility;

5. Combating soil compaction helps better water infiltration.

World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, marked annually on June 17, is gaining increased relevance for countries like the Republic of Moldova. Set up by the United Nations General Assembly in 1994 (A/RES/49/115), this day is an opportunity to evaluate progress, promote practical solutions, and strengthen cooperation in combating desertification, land degradation, and drought for a secure and resilient future.

The 2025 campaign takes place under the slogan "Restore the Land. Reap the Benefits," highlighting the multiple benefits of land restoration: creating jobs, strengthening food and water security, supporting climate actions, and increasing economic resilience. The global objective for this year is to restore 1.5 billion hectares of degraded land worldwide and relaunch a trillion-dollar land restoration economy by 2030.

The Republic of Moldova joined the UN Convention to Combat Desertification UNCCD in 1998, committing to implementing policies and actions that address environmental challenges through an integrated approach aligned with UNCCD goals and the optimal use of natural resources. Therefore, the implementation of the assumed commitments becomes essential, considering that the land degradation process is accompanied by the expansion of areas intended for construction (expansion of anthropic landscapes) to the detriment of forested or grassland areas (natural landscapes). Investments in degraded soil restoration projects not only can contribute to mitigating the effects of climate change but also to protecting biodiversity and revitalizing local economies. Only through strong collaboration, both international and national, and active community involvement, can environmental challenges be overcome and transformed into opportunities.