Beirut August 7, 2015 – The BALADI program celebrated the completion of the Irrigation Water Conveyance Network project in Bazbina, Akkar. The celebration took place in the village of Bazbina in the presence of Mr. Michel Moawad, RMF board member, members of the municipal council of Bezbina, associates of the agricultural cooperative, farmers of Bazbina, and community supporters.

Through this program, USAID contributed $148,000 to establish and rehabilitate 3.2 kilometers of irrigation canals, benefitting 158 Bazbina farmers. Before the new water conveyance network was constructed, farmers irrigated their orchards and fields using very old, deteriorated earthen and stone canals, losing significant quantities of water through seepage. Farmers are now expected to achieve up to 40% water savings using the new network. The North Lebanon Water Establishment approved the network designs and canal specifications.

The five-year USAID BALADI program supports municipal-led development activities benefitting 58 municipalities throughout Lebanon. In 2015, the program will select an additional 40 activities to support municipalities that work inclusively with citizens to undertake needed community development activities.