The World Bank is providing 40 million US Dollars from the Multi-Donor Trust Fund to the UNDP to ease the reintegration of 17,000 former combatants and women associated with the army into civilian life.
Julius Court, speaking on behalf of the Joint Donor Team, said the successful implementation of the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration program is critical for the Comprehensive Peace Agreement.Mr. Court added that donor support for this initiative shows their commitment to make the major investments needed to improve security in Southern Sudan.
Ramakrishnan Iyer, who processed the grant on behalf of UNDP, said ex-combatants will receive counselling services to enable them to choose the reintegration option suitable to their skills, needs and interests.
Options mentioned include rearing of animals and agricultura, micro-business support, vocational training or accelerated formal education.
Social support activities, like schooling, psychosocial support, medical services and others will be provided to ease the transition of former fighters into their communities.