Asmara — The Minister of Land, Water and Environment, Mr. Woldenkiel Gebremariam, said that commendable accomplishments have been registered in endeavors to effectively utilize land, water and environment resources for the benefit of the people.

Noting that effective tasks have been undertaken to rehabilitate the nation's natural resources that had been exploited due to successive colonial rule, he pointed out that vigorous efforts have been made to promote the provision of potable water supply to remote areas. Mr. Woldenkiel further outlined that tiessa land has been allotted to 65,000 nationals across the country, in addition to the distribution of land plots to 64, 000 people in the form of land rent which is playing significant role in alleviating housing problem.

As regards provision of potable water supply, the Minister indicated that 75% of the country's population has now access to potable water supply which used to be only 7% before the achievement of independence.

Stressing the significance of efficient water resource management, he stated that a committee has been set up to introduce effective management system and that 41% of the nation's water resource has been put under management. In this regard, Mr. Woldenkiel pointed out that a number of micro-dams, water reservoirs, ponds and wells have been constructed across the nation in a bid to make due contribution for domestic, agricultural and industrial purposes. He also elaborated on activities being carried out towards promoting sound ecology and underscored the significance of undertaking stepped-up campaign to this end.

Mr. Woldenkiel further explained that the Ministry's action program for 2009 would focus on ensuring sustainable management of land, water and environment resources in a manner that backs up socio-economic development endeavors.