ICRC stops some programmes in Abkhazia and opens new ones

In 2011, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) plans to launch a project on rendering help to victims of mine explosions in Abkhazia. This was reported on September 20 by Inske Vandormayl, head of the ICRC Mission in Abkhazia. Some of the programmes are phased out, and their former recipients will now be helped by the authorities of Abkhazia.

According to Ms Vandormayl, currently the assistance programme to the orthopaedic centre in Gagra and the humanitarian aid project aimed at the needy population of Kodori Gorge are continued.

The head of the ICRC Mission in Abkhazia gave a positive estimate of the actions of the republic's leaders, who had undertook to further fund social and humanitarian programmes.

In his turn, Maxim Gvindzhiya, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Abkhazia, has thanked the head of the ICRC in Abkhazia for the activities they carry out in the republic.

Let us note that under decision of the Cabinet of Ministers of Abkhazia, since January 1, 2011, after closing the ICRC programme "Foodstuff Aid", its former beneficiaries will start receiving 700 roubles per person per month from the government.

The ICRC in Abkhazia has also stopped the programmes "Canteens", "Packed Meal" and "Home Visiting Service".