Bahrain to build health clinic and library in Gaza
5 January
Amman
Bahrain and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) are moving forward on two important reconstruction projects in Gaza: a health clinic and a school library.
A Bahrain delegation led by Dr Mustafa El Sayed, Secretary General of the Royal Charity Organisation (RCO), met Mr Peter Ford, Representative of the UNRWA Commissioner-General, to finalise arrangements for payment of the first instalment due in respect of the two projects. In the wake of the devastating Israeli attack on Gaza between December 2008 and January 2009, the RCO and UNRWA signed in April 2009 an agreement worth US $5.385 million providing for reconstruction of a health centre in Khan Younis refugee camp, a library at Al Fakhoura School in Jabalia camp, and a new school in Jabalia camp, in accordance with the relevant local Palestinian procedures.
Implementation of the projects has been delayed by the Israeli blockade of Gaza, preventing the entry of building materials. Approval has recently been received for the first two projects to go ahead and approval for the new school is expected shortly.
The RCO delegation and UNRWA discussed execution of the current projects, which are expected to be completed within one year, and the scope for further collaboration on new projects.
Peter Ford warmly thanked His Majesty Sheikh Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa and the RCO for all the help which Bahrain is providing to Palestinian refugees.
Document Type: Arabic text, Press Release
Document Sources: United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA)
Country: Bahrain
Subject: Assistance, Closures/Curfews/Blockades, Education and culture, Gaza Strip, Health, Refugee camps
Publication Date: 05/01/2011