Ukrainians Launch 77 Humanitarian Projects in Iraq

Ukrainian peacekeepers are providing humanitarian aid to the Iraqi people. Since October 2004, the social and material infrastructure restoration unit of Ukraine’s 7th Separate Mechanized Brigade, commanded by Lt.-Col. Andriy Levin, launched 77 projects worth a total of $3,592,382, Interfax-Ukraine reports, quoting the Defense Ministry’s press service. The purpose of the projects was determined in the course of close contacts between Ukrainian officers and local authorities. The proposals, subject to final consideration and approval by the commander of Multinational Division Center-South, were put forward by the government of Wasit province, municipal mayors, law-enforcement representatives, and leaders of local civic organizations. According to Col. Serhiy Hatchenko, commander of the governmental structures support unit and deputy commander of the Ukrainian peacekeeping force, 57 projects have already been commissioned. The total cost of these projects is $2,492,382. Contracts have been signed to commission 20 projects worth an estimated $1,100,000.

The humanitarian projects started by Ukrainian peacekeepers involve almost all the cities and villages in Wasit province. The Ukrainian military have helped repair and build 6 clinics, and 20 schools and kindergartens. They have also completed 7 projects aimed at improving power supply and distribution in the province, 14 to restore water supply and sewerage systems, and 3 to repair railroads and highways. The projects spearheaded by Ukrainian peacekeepers have created more than 2,500 jobs for local residents. Specialists from the 7th Separate Mechanized Brigade’s governmental structures support unit continue to draw up documentation for implementing 174 projects worth a total of $10,947,771.

The Ukrainian peacekeepers are also consulting with the Iraqis about providing security during the general elections scheduled for January 30.