An $8.6 million grant to enhance agricultural production and provide food security for poor people in rural areas of the Republic of Congo was announced today by the United Nations International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

The initiative is part of a larger $18.7 million project in the Likouala, Pool and Sangha Departments, which aims to reach 250 villages and some 20,000 households, according to a news release issued by the Rome-based UN agency.

The effects of disease on cassava crops and poor quality seeds have plagued the rural region, where very few development programmes are currently operating.

The IFAD project includes the provision of improved plant materials and seeds, and support for the marketing of agricultural products.

Involving local government and community participation, the initiative will also help improve rural roads and thereby reduce transportation costs, as well as strengthen farmers' groups and empower women and young people through their involvement in project activities.

In total IFAD has funded five projects in the Republic of Congo at a total cost of $37.6 million, directly benefiting over 100,000 households.