NEWS RELEASE

Wednesday, April 28, 1999

ERITREAN LAND MINES HAMPER ETHIOPIA’S REHABILITATION EFFORTS

Land mines laid by Eritrea during its invasion and occupation of Ethiopian territory are now hampering efforts by the Ethiopian Government to rehabilitate its citizens, according to the head of the Disaster Prevention and Preparedness Commission (DPPC).

Simon Mechale, Commissioner of the DPPC, yesterday told a meeting of British NGOs that Ethiopia requires help and expertise in clearing land mines from the Badme area, now recaptured, in order for rehabilitation projects to begin. These involve rebuilding the houses, clinics, schools, terraces and water wells destroyed by Eritrean aggression. Today he is reiterating his message to DFID.

He also appealed for assistance for areas of Ethiopia which have been affected by drought due to the failure of the ‘Belg’ seasonal rains. The combination of drought affected areas and the presence of 384,000 displaced people from the occupied areas has resulted in the need for extra assistance this year.