24 July 2014, Qaryatein sd-Qaryatein village, Homs, Syria - A group of internally displaced people living with host communities in the village of Qaryatein, in the governorate of Homs, receives training on micro-gardening. With the support of the Republic of South Africa, FAO provided 500 internally displaced families (equal to 4000 people) in Homs and Tartous governorates with micro-gardening kits, containing ready-to-use growing bags, vegetable seedlings, fertilizers and hand tools. In parallel with seed distribution, all beneficiaries received training on micro-gardening to ensure optimal use. Micro-gardens allow low-income displaced families with limited or no access to land to meet their needs for vitamins, minerals and plant protein by providing direct access to fresh, nutritious vegetables every day. They also offer a source of extra income from the sale of small surpluses. Of the households assisted, 25% were women-headed. With a view to enhancing gender equality, a particular focus on women-headed households was stressed in selecting the project beneficiaries.