Maher

Maher is 55 years old and a married smallholder farmer with three children, two of whom are in school. He lives with his family in Zeita, near Tulkarm in the north of the Palestine.

Maher has been managing his family’s agricultural business for the past 10 years, specialising in greenhouse farming. He oversees the daily operations of a plastic greenhouse and is supported by three part-time workers when needed. The farm generates an average monthly net income of around $1,500 (≈ £1,105), with most of the produce sold in local markets.

The farm is already equipped with essential infrastructure such as drip irrigation pipes, fertiliser tanks, and water pumps valued at $3,300 (≈ £2,435). However, Maher has now sought a loan to further develop the greenhouse and increase productivity.

The loan will be invested in:

- An advanced irrigation system costing $2,500 (≈ £1,845).

- Seeds and fertilisers for cucumbers and tomatoes valued at $2,000 (≈ £1,475).

- Essential maintenance including plastic sheeting, ropes, and wooden supports, at a cost of $2,500 (≈ £1,845).

With these improvements, Maher aims to boost crop yields, strengthen his family’s livelihood, and create more stability for the future. He is committed to repaying the loan in 24 monthly instalments.