Economic and Development Challenges in Ajloun: Between Numbers and Opportunities

Written by: Amani Al-Sa’aideh – Member of the Safe Reef Youth Political Space

Statistics indicate the magnitude of the challenges facing Ajloun Governorate:
• Unemployment rate: 25.8%
• Poverty rate: 25.5%
• Female unemployment rate: 38%
These figures reflect a difficult reality that requires practical and exceptional solutions to advance local development.
Lack of investment despite its potential
Ajloun possesses distinct tourism potential, but actual investment is limited. The cable car project demonstrated a positive impact, but it did not achieve the desired effect due to the lack of complementary facilities such as restaurants, hotels, and tourism services that increase employment opportunities.
Proposed investment solution:
• A special investment system for Ajloun that offers tangible incentives, such as:
• Reducing land prices
• Electricity exemptions for a specific period
• Implementing the successful Tafilah experience to encourage investors and drive development.

ازمة المواصلات وتأثيرها على البطالة
تشكل المواصلات العامة المحدودة عائقاً اساسياً امام الشباب، وخاصة النساء، حيث:
• الباصات تغطي مناطق محددة فقط
• اوقات العمل ضيقة وغير ملائمة
الحل:
• انشاء نظام نقل فعال، عبر تطبيق رقمي او مجمع مركزي، يغطي جميع مناطق المحافظة ويربطها بالمحافظات الاخرى، مع ساعات تشغيل اطول لتسهيل الوصول للعمل والدراسة.
خاتمة

Addressing unemployment and boosting investment in Ajloun requires a clear vision that takes into account the needs of youth and the governorate’s unique landscape. Investment incentives and effective transportation solutions are essential to creating quality job opportunities and achieving sustainable development.