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2 September 1999
ICRC News 99/36

Balkans Crisis: Sowing the seeds of the future

Kosovo farmers anxious to till the fields they were forced to abandon during the conflict are to receive support from the ICRC as part of an approach aimed at helping residents of the province regain self-sufficiency.
     Many farmers returned to their homes to find buildings, equipment and supplies destroyed or stolen, making it impossible for them to cultivate their land. Starting this week, farmers in six districts will receive fertilizer and seed with which to plant a winter-wheat crop for harvest next summer. Eventually, some 15,000 will benefit from the ICRC programme, which is being run in conjunction with other agencies.
     Agricultural expert Matthias Mollet explained how the programme came about. "At the moment many farming families are dependent on food aid. We asked them what they want and they told us they want to grow their own food on their own land. So we are helping them do just that." At the same time every effort must be made to ensure that landmines and unexploded ordnance are cleared from agricultural land and to make farmers aware of the risks before they return to work.
     "Of course, not every farmer will have the equipment he needs to plant a crop this year", Mollet pointed out. "In addition to supplying seed and fertilizer, the Red Cross is also planning a programme to provide both tractors and spare parts."

Last update : 02/09/99

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