Table of Contents
As the Dominican Republic continues to grow and transform its rural sector, we spoke with IFAD’s Country Director, Isabel de la Peña, to learn more about the challenges, opportunities and successes shaping rural livelihoods.
What are the unique challenges facing rural populations in the Dominican Republic?
Despite the Dominican Republic’s growing economy, rural communities continue to grapple with persistent challenges, including poverty, inequality and informal employment.
Although agriculture remains a cornerstone in the country’s socioeconomic development, providing roughly 7.2 per cent of employment, rural jobs have declined in recent years – even as the services and manufacturing sectors have expanded.
Small producers have limited access to finance, technology, financial education and infrastructure – these obstacles reduce their productivity and ability to compete.
In addition, the rural sector is highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, particularly agriculture, which is especially sensitive to its impacts. It is estimated that by 2050, the yields of some crops could decrease by up to 30 per cent due to climate change.
What are the untapped opportunities in the Dominican Republic?
The Dominican Republic is a flourishing economy with strong potential to continue driving rural development.
There are ways to help farmers’ organizations by introducing new business models, such as partnerships with the private sector. At the same time, working closely with public development banks can make it easier for rural producers to access loans, insurance and other financial products designed specifically for their needs.
Adapting to climate change is another important area of action. When supported in adopting efficient irrigation systems, low-emission practices, diversified and climate-resilient crops, rural communities can drive economic growth in spite of climate variability and extreme weather events.
The country also has enormous potential for tourism. With more than 11 million visitors each year, tourism offers a strong opportunity to increase the value of agricultural products and support the growth of agri-food micro, small and medium enterprises serving this growing market.
What difference is IFAD making to rural lives in the Dominican Republic?
IFAD contributes directly to improving the well-being of the country’s rural communities. Our work focuses on strengthening their capacity to generate income, create employment opportunities and increase their resilience to economic, social, and climate shocks. Since 1979, IFAD has supported nine rural development projects in the country, with a total investment of US$280 million, including funding from IFAD and partners.
We currently have two ongoing projects. The Inclusive and Resilient PRORURAL Project is being carried out in 11 provinces to increase incomes, improve food security and strengthen community resilience. The project supports the implementation of rural investment plans that support business development in sectors such as coffee, avocado, livestock farming, fishing and aquaculture, beekeeping, and eco-tourism.
Meanwhile, PRORURAL Youth seeks to increase the economic mobility of young rural people. We work to ensure that they have access to decent jobs and can strengthen their enterprises. As part of this project, IFAD is supporting a master’s degree in rural development, the first of its kind in the country. Launched in August 2025, the programme aims to train the professionals who will drive rural development in the country.
IFAD’s new Country Strategic Opportunities Programme for the Dominican Republic will guide our work from 2026 to 2031. Designed together with the Government of the Dominican Republic, the strategy aims to boost rural incomes, climate resilience, innovation and food security across rural communities.
READ MORE: https://www.ifad.org/en/w/opinions/rural-futures-in-focus-dominican-republic
