Mercy Corps Jordan launches 'Tabeaa' to boost climate resilience in Jordan

AMMAN — Mercy Corps Jordan has officially launched “Tabeaa” (nature) project.

The project, funded by the Swiss embassy in Jordan and the Z Zurich Foundation, is a pioneering initiative aimed at enhancing climate resilience and disaster preparedness across Jordan.

The launch ceremony, attended by a delegate of the minister of environment, brought together key stakeholders from government, civil society, international organisations and the private sector to discuss urgent climate challenges and sustainable adaptation strategies, according to a statement for The Jordan Times on Monday.

As part of Mercy Corps’ ongoing efforts under the Zurich Climate Resilience Alliance, “Tabeaa” project seeks to bridge the gap between national climate policies and local implementation.

The project will be implemented over four years, and will work on the national level to support the localisation of the Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) strategies.

It will focus on five highly vulnerable communities: Azraq, Mlaih, Deiban, Wadi Musa, and Shobak, particularly selected for their "high" vulnerability to the compound risks of flash floods, heat waves, and water scarcity.

During the launch, Darius Radcliffe, Country Director of Mercy Corps Jordan, stressed the urgency of climate action.

Radcliffe said: “Climate change is never a distant threat—it is a present and pressing challenge that continues to shape our daily lives. Its impacts are not distributed equally; rather, they disproportionately affect the most vulnerable communities. Jordan, a country that has long struggled with water scarcity, now faces escalating climate risks, including more frequent and intense flash floods, heat waves, and desertification."

He added that these environmental challenges threaten livelihoods, food security, and overall well-being, making climate resilience a top priority.

Swiss Ambassador to Jordan Emilija Georgieva said:" Switzerland has been a longstanding supporter of Jordan, providing assistance across various sectors, including water, education, protection, and addressing humanitarian needs for refugees."

"Switzerland remains committed to supporting Jordan in building a more climate-resilient future, and we look forward to witnessing the positive outcomes and to strengthening our partnership in addressing global challenges together," Georgieva added.

By fostering collaboration, innovation, and sustainable practices, Mercy Corps Jordan and its partners aspire to build a future where Jordan’s people and ecosystems are equipped to adapt and thrive despite climate uncertainties, according to the statement.

Over the past months, the “Tabeaa” project team has conducted an in-depth analysis of Jordan’s climate change adaptation (CCA) and disaster risk reduction (DRR) policies. The findings were presented at the launch, setting the stage for insightful discussions and concrete action plans among attendees, the statement said.