Context
Since the outbreak of the Syrian Civil War in 2011, more than 1 million refugees have fled to Lebanon. This has placed tremendous pressure on the country, which has a relatively small population of 4.5 million. The labour market in Lebanon has deteriorated rapidly and the unemployment rate, particularly among young people, has been rising due to the influx of refugees. In this regard, the goal of creating income-generating opportunities for unemployed people, particularly youth, in order to enhance social stability and prevent participation in extremist activities has become a pressing issue.
This project is designed to improve livelihood opportunities available in the host communities in Northern Lebanon affected by the refugee influx. The project goes about this by increasing job opportunities in the furniture industry, particularly, in micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The industry has potential to absorb significant additional labour. Though the industry has been growing in recent years, it has been unable to capture opportunities as it faces several challenges, particularly, lack of skilled labour, slow industrialization of manufacturing processes, difficulties with cash-flow, deficiency in export-market knowledge, and weak management skills.
Main approach
The project is helping upgrade local enterprises by providing training courses on quality, productivity, occupational health and safety, as well as waste management, among others. The production processes of the furniture producers in Northern Lebanon, especially in Tripoli, are also being upgraded through provision of vital equipment. In addition, skill development training is provided for unemployed people, particularly youth, in order to enhance employability. Producers’ market access is being expanded by enhancing visibility of the furniture producers, thus promoting linkages with buyers. Overall, the project is contributing toward the country’s inclusive and sustainable industrial development.
Expected results
Approximately 50 furniture producers are upgraded in terms of quality, productivity, energy management, among others.
Equipment for furniture production is provided.
Approximately 100 young females and males are provided with skills/vocational training related to wood processing/furniture production.
Impact and outlook
The primary target groups of this project include MSMEs in the furniture industry and other relevant industrial institutions including vocational training institutions, research and development centres, and other support institutions in Northern Lebanon with a particular focus on Tripoli. It is envisaged that 50 producers from the selected furniture cluster in Northern Lebanon will be trained and will receive upgrading services, with a focus on productivity enhancement, taking into consideration social and environmental issues depending on the context of the producers.
The project is benefiting unemployed youth, particularly young females, through a skills development programme, which is enhancing their employability.
At a glance
Goal: Enhance livelihood opportunities in Northern Lebanon by upgrading furniture producers and providing skills development for youth Donor: Government of Japan Counterparts: Ministry of Industry, Republic of Lebanon, Association of Lebanese Industrialists, Chamber of Commerce, Tripoli, Syndicate of Wood Furniture Industries
Budget: USD 1,000,000 Duration: 2016-2017