press releases 2007

USAID Wastewater Treatment Plants Inaugurated in Haytoura, Ayshiyyeh, Ghobbatieh, Wadi Jezzine and Snayyah

August 2, 2007

USAID Mission Director Raouf Youssef, Haytoura Mayor Elias Rashed, Ayshiyyeh Municipality Vice President Youssef Fares, Wadi Jezzine Mayor Robert Abou Sleiman, Benwati Mayor Mounir Rbeih and Snayyah Mayor Joseph Nawfal inaugurated five water treatments plants in Haytoura, Ayshiyyeh, Ghobbatieh/Benwati, Wadi Jezzine and Snayyah in Jezzine District, South Lebanon, on August 2, 2007.

The plants serve almost 6,000 people in the area. They are the result of close cooperation between USAID and the communities. With funds from the American people, USAID provided more than $500,000 to build the plants and train municipal staff to operate and maintain them. The municipalities supplied the land and installed many of the sewage networks. The YMCA, a non-profit organization, worked with USAID to carry out the projects.

The plants are among nine being built to bring clean water and sewage systems to 27,000 people in South Lebanon and the Bekaa. In partnership with the YMCA and the municipalities, USAID is working to protect the health and environment of those living in rural communities. By protecting the environment, the work also encourages rural tourism, bringing jobs and money to the region.

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has worked in Lebanon since 1951, funding development projects to benefit Lebanese citizens. In Lebanon, USAID creates jobs, invests in youth and protects the environment. With funds from the American people, USAID provides $40 million in assistance a year, working in partnership with Lebanese and U.S. organizations. USAID’s work reflects the strong friendship between the Lebanese and American people. For more information about USAID’s projects in Lebanon, visit USAID’s website www.usaidlebanon.org.lb.