DR of Congo: UN mission to allocate $1 million to health, rehabilitation projects

The United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUC) today announced the launch of a $1 million initiative to implement small, quick impact projects in areas that will help meet the basic needs of the Congolese population.

In a statement issued in Kinshasa, MONUC said the money would be used for projects in sanitation, health, water and electricity supply, as well as school rehabilitation and the provision of educational materials.

"These actions of MONUC are a normal part of the peace process, insofar as they address the daily needs of the populations who are the major victims of a conflict which has now lasted for almost three years," the statement said. "The objective is to rekindle hope and trust with these small projects, and to open the door for larger developmental activities once peace will be restored."

So far, $300,000 has already been committed to finance 26 projects, including agricultural rehabilitation in six military observers' deployment sites, water supply for a paediatric hospital in Kimbondo, reconstruction of a reception centre in Kalemie, and assistance to street children in Kinshasa, among other initiatives. MONUC will also provide emergency support to war widows and children in Kinshasa.

Before the end of September 2001, some $700,000 will be allocated to other initiatives selected among the 150 projects that have so far been presented for MONUC support.