Implemented in partnership with Oxfam GB, the 40 months project (June 2025 – September 2028) aims to improve the living conditions of approximately 130,000 Jordanians and Syrians in both refugee camps and surrounding areas – including Greater Mafraq and the municipalities of Rehab, Za’atari and Manshieh, Um Al Jimal, and Al Khalidiyah.

H.E. Mr. Pierre-Christophe Chatzisavas, Ambassador of the European Union to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, emphasized that “On World Refugee Day, the EU reaffirms its commitment to supporting refugees and host communities that have so generously shared resources and services. This new project builds on years of European Union sustained engagement in Za’atari and Azraq Syrian refugee camps and surrounding host communities. It will enhance Solid Waste Management services and create green livelihood opportunities for all.’

“Ten years on, Syrian refugees continue to face immense challenges, compounded by the impacts of climate change on marginalized communities,” said Dmitry Medlev, Oxfam in Jordan’s Country Director. “This EU-funded initiative recognizes the high program quality Oxfam has consistently demonstrated in solid waste management over the past decade. Together, we are committed to creating cleaner, healthier, and more resilient communities.”

The ambitious project was announced today at an event held in Za’atari Camp under the attended by H.E. Mr. Chatzisavas. It will manage 52,500 tonnes of municipal solid waste, including 36,000 tonnes from Za’atari Camp and 16,500 tonnes from Azraq Camp, while diverting 3,800 tonnes of recyclable materials from landfills through sorting stations in Za’atari, Azraq, Um Al Jimal, and Greater Mafraq. By integrating circular economy principles and sustainable practices, the project aims to maintain cleaner camps and communities, reduce environmental impact, and promote resource recovery. 

Engineer Waleed Arrar, Solid Waste Management Program Manager at Oxfam in Jordan, added: “This project is a testament to our shared vision with the European Union to support Jordan’s resilience and environmental sustainability. Through sustainable practices and livelihood opportunities, we aim to empower local residents and Syrian refugees alike.”

A key pillar of this initiative is its focus on livelihoods, creating more than 12,500 short-term green jobs for Syrian refugees and Jordanians in host communities. This includes 5,806 Incentive-Based Volunteers (IBVs) in Za’atari, 4,494 in Azraq, and 1,911 Cash-for-Work (CfW) opportunities in host communities. Over €9.9 million will be directly paid to beneficiaries, with a strong emphasis on recruiting women and people with disabilities to promote inclusivity. Participants will also receive training in waste management, recycling, and community engagement to build valuable skills.

Community involvement remains central to the project’s approach. Oxfam will conduct 1,000 awareness-raising sessions and 35 clean-up campaigns in target areas, along with three beach clean-up campaigns in Aqaba Governorate. Additionally, five customized technical training workshops will build the capacity of municipalities in coordination with Jordan’s Ministry of Local Administration.