ONE of the most popular initiatives in Jordan is Zikra, launched by the young Jordanian; Rabee Zureikat.
The scheme, set-up in 2007, introduced a new model under the name Exchange Tourism, which bridges social gaps between inhabitants of cities and ethnic minorities residing in rural areas. For Zikra, exchange denotes an equal relationship between both parties and through exchange tourism activities, citizens interact and exchange resources and experiences.
The result is bridging social gaps and shattering stereotypes on both sides, thus easing ethnic and social friction and leading to a harmonious peaceful society.
As part of this concept, Zureikat organises trips to Ghor Al Mazra’a, close to the southern region of Karak, for Amman’s inhabitants generating income, which is channeled into micro-loans in the village, and also bringing the problems of the area to the visitors’ attention, pushing them to come up with solutions.
Exchange Tourism replaces traditional core-periphery interaction, such as philanthropy from rich to poor citizens by highlighting both parties’ assets and building capacity in rural areas.
Among Zikra’s Exchange Tourism programmes was a trip to Ghor al Mazra’a where visitors learnt how to make eyeliner, traditional bread, Hattah/Kuffiyya tassels, ornaments, the famous traditional dish Gallayet Bandora and much more!
Participants then visited a local family due to receive the rotating micro-loan funded by them as an exchange for the workshops. The loan was paid back within 20 months allowing another family the chance to do the same!
Currently 18 families have sustainable income from businesses they have started, thanks to participants in the ‘Exchange Tourism’ activities, two university scholarships have also been established.
by Maysa Zureikat