UN Agency Launches $18 Million Appeal for Palestinians Affected by Israeli WallGENEVA - The United Nations development agency has called for immediate action to address the needs of Palestinian communities affected by Israels Separation Wall, launching an appeal for $18 million in emergency assistance to address job needs and improve vital social, municipal and agricultural infrastructure requirements.
The proposals, by the UN Development Programme (UNDP) Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian people, seek to generate over 200,000 employment opportunities and includes land reclamation projects, new agricultural roads and improved water infrastructure. They also aim to revamp health care and education and build the capacity of the municipalities and village councils.
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The impact on agriculture is of particular concern in the governorates of Jenin, Tulkarm and Qalqilya, where the first phase is being constructed. The wall could severely constrain the delivery of basic social services and commercial exchange, especially the movements of agricultural products, Palestinian officials have said.
Meanwhile, the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) today warmly welcomed news that the United States will pledge up to $26 million for that agencys current emergency appeal, the largest single donation by any Government to UNRWA emergency appeals since they were launched three years ago.
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