The main activities in the pre-establishment stage of a Wadi project are:

• selection of the project area, followed by
• selection of families, family-owned plots for development, and fruit tree varieties under the agro-horti-forestry component
• planning and implementation of pre-plantation activities

Selection of project area is determined by:

• prerequisites discussed in the Requirements section
• scale and conditions of project funding
• implementing agency’s areas of expertise and operation, and priorities.

A key factor is the implementing agency’s commitment and ability to have a continuous, long-term and effective presence in the project area.

After the project area is finalised, due approvals are received, and staff has been selected and oriented, the process of social mobilisation can begin.

Exposure visits of key community members, including women, to established Wadis is a key tool for generating awareness and inspiring people’s confidence in the Wadi concept.

Many activities under the quality of life component can be conducted in the pre-establishment stage, to establish rapport with the community and address immediate needs.

A baseline survey is essential for understanding socio-economic conditions; data on livelihood status, income, household assets, and health and nutrition status is required for evaluating project outcomes, during and after the project.  

See also:
Selection of families, family-owned plots and fruit tree varieties
Planning and implementing pre-plantation activities