OFID delegation visited ERW clearance projects in South Lebanon

On April 23, 2015 representatives from OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) Mr Rachid Bencherif, Head of Grants Unit and Ms Souhad Khriesat, Grants Officer conducted a monitoring visit to Landmine/ERW clearance tasks in South Lebanon. The OFID delegation was accompanied by ambassador Damjan Bergant, ITF director, and Mr Mitja Hegler, Project Manager while the visit was prepared in close cooperation with Lebanon Mine Action Centre (LMAC) and implementing partners, DCA and NPA.

The tasked areas which were visited are among high priority areas in South Lebanon and are being used for agricultural activities. As the land is highly contaminated by ERW, the farmers are under constant threat of losing their lives or limb while conducting their daily work to make a living and meet their basic needs. The OFID delegation was introduced with importance of ERW clearance project for local community and discussed the problem with direct beneficiaries, land owners and local farmers.

OFID/ITF representatives also visited Lebanon Mine Action Centre (LMAC), where revised Lebanon Mine Action Strategy, problems they are facing and the needs where discussed in details with LMAC director, Brig. Gen. Elie Nassif and Deputy Director of Operation Section, Big. Gen. Hassan Fakih.

As ITF is committed to further supporting Lebanon on its path achieving mine/ERW impact free status, the country needs were presented to different Embassies in Lebanon through high level meetings.

The current project of Landmine/ERW clearance in South Lebanon is supported by OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) and the United States Department of State, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs, Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement (PM/WRA).