IRAQ: U.S. Soldiers Give Gift of Tractors to Iraqi Farmers

By Army Pfc. Evan Loyd
Special to American Forces Press Service

COMBAT OUTPOST MEADE, Iraq, March 9, 2009 – Multinational Division Baghdad soldiers presented 14 new tractors to local sheiks from the Lutifiyah Nahia area during a ceremony here March 5.

Each Arma Trac 602 tractor can help to cultivate an area of more than 25 million square feet.

Soldiers with the 1st Armored Division’s Task Force 4th Battalion, 27th Field Artillery, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, used funds from the Commander’s Emergency Response Program to purchase the tractors.

Read Full Post »

GAZA: Farmers to Receive Compensation for Damaged Property in Gaza

By Relief Web

Date: 26 Feb 2009

Jerusalem – The United Nations Development Programme and the Palestinian Authority signed an agreement today allocating US$270 million for the restoration of the agricultural sector in Gaza. The agreement consists of a compensation package to Palestinian farmers for property damaged during the most recent military operations in Gaza. It also entails direct rehabilitation of the damaged infrastructure, including damaged orchards, fisheries, livestock, green houses, irrigation and roads.

Read Full Post »

AFGHANISTAN: Voices from Kandahar conflict

Voices from Kandahar conflict

BBC News

Nato and Afghan forces have launched an operation to drive out Taleban insurgents from Arghandab district on the outskirts of the southern city of Kandahar.

Residents of Kandahar and people who fled when the Taleban occupied their villages spoke to the BBC about their concerns.

Read Full Post »