The United Nations mission in Cote d'Ivoire (UNOCI) launched a 5-million-U.S.-dollar project on Thursday to step up reintegration of ex-combatants from the country's civil war, as well as young people at risk.
The "1,000 micro-projects" initiative was launched by the UN top envoy in the West Africa nation Y.J. Choi, according to a UN press release.
The projects seek to support ex-combatants, ex-militias and young people at risk, along with children and women associated with the Ivorian conflict.
The projects cover a range of activities, including technical training, agriculture, market-gardening, cattle rearing, fishing, forestry, construction, transportation, motor mechanics, public works and catering.
The aim of the micro-projects is to reduce poverty and youth unemployment. In addition, it is hoped that they will help provide a secure and stable environment for free and fair elections while reintegrating ex-combatants into their former communities.
Reintegrating the ex-combatants, who belong to the armed wing of the New Forces, has long been a problem for the government.
On May 2, the New Forces announced a program aimed at disarming, demobilizing and reintegrating over 36,000 former fighters in line with a peace agreement to reunite the country ahead of crucial presidential polls slated for November.
Source:Xinhua
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